28/06/2023
Row Away the Blues 2023: “It’s bigger than just me!”
Are you ready for a physical and mental challenge that will benefit a great cause? Do you want to be part of a community that cares about your well-being and the well-being of others? Do you want to dedicate your effort to someone who matters to you?
If you said yes to any of these questions, then Row Away the Blues 2023 is the event for you!
Row Away the Blues is a community event hosted by NZBMA, a clinic in Christchurch that offers clinical treatment and complementary therapy for various health issues. They use a biopsychosocial approach to address all aspects of an individual and they are home to the body mechanic. They also have a unicorn as their logo to symbolize their commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality.
The event started in 2019 to promote mental health through physical activity. The event involved teams or individuals rowing a marathon distance of 42.2km on a rowing machine in Hagley Park. All the funds raised were donated to Pura PuraWhetu, a Māori health and well-being provider that helps people in New Zealand to live well.
This year, we are bringing back Row Away the Blues with the theme of “It’s bigger than just me”. We recognize that mental health affects everyone, either directly or indirectly, and we want to support those who are going through tough times.
To make the event more inclusive, we have changed the format from a distance-based challenge on a rowing machine to a time-based challenge that anyone can join. On August 6th at 10 am, Row Away the Blues will start at Nga Puna Wai with participants choosing to row, bike, run or walk.
The goal is to be physically active for 4 hours and dedicate your effort to someone who matters to you.
For Row Away the Blues 2023, we are raising awareness for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand. They work to create a society where everyone can enjoy positive mental health and well-being without discrimination.
We are looking for participants to do what they physically can and get outside with the community. Our aim is to raise awareness of mental health by taking on a physical challenge that will test our endurance and resilience.
Why should you join us?
Because mental health matters. According to statistics, almost half of people in New Zealand will experience mental distress or illness in their lifetime. Over half of the rainbow community and nearly two-thirds of people living with disabilities will have a personal experience of mental distress or illness. Mental health and addiction challenges are common in New Zealand, and anyone can experience them. Because physical activity helps. Research shows that physical activity can improve your mood, reduce stress, enhance self-esteem, and prevent or manage depression and anxiety. Physical activity can also improve your physical health by strengthening your heart, lungs, muscles, bones, and immune system. Because you are not alone. By joining Row Away the Blues 2023, you will be part of a supportive community that shares your values and goals. You will meet new people who understand what you are going through and who will cheer you on. You will also have the opportunity to honor someone who matters to you by dedicating your effort to them. Because you can make a difference. By participating in Row Away the Blues 2023, you will be raising awareness for the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand and their work to create a society where everyone can enjoy positive mental health and well-being without discrimination. You will also be contributing to NZBMA’s mission to provide holistic care for people with various health issues. We hope you will join us in this event and remember that you are not alone in your journey. Together, we can make a difference for ourselves and others.
To register for Row Away the Blues 2023, please check out our event page or email us [email protected]
