The story began with a simple advertisement that read, “I walk for my morale,” which was a program designed for individuals dealing with burnout or depression. Sarah and Mireille were going through a difficult period in their lives. Mireille had experienced multiple burnouts due to a lack of recognition from her management team, and Sarah had been let go from her job two years before retirement because of back surgery. Nordic walking helped them overcome their struggles.
The “I walk for my morale” program was developed in France by academics who specialize in the connection between physical activity and depression. It was first established in 2022 in Nancy and is now available in Belgium in partnership with the Hospital Center of Braine-l’Alleud.
The premise of the program is rooted in scientific evidence that physical exercise can be an effective tool in combating depression. However, it can be challenging to motivate oneself when feeling drained of energy. Mireille recalls how even simple tasks like washing herself became complicated during her struggles with depression. Joining sports clubs is not always a viable option because of the fear of being judged by others, which often accompanies depression.
“I walk for my morale” offers a solution by bringing together individuals who are experiencing depression under the guidance of a coach. They engage in Nordic walking, which helps them develop a new connection to their bodies and nature, allowing them to get back on track.
It all started with a simple ad: “I walk for my morale, a program for people suffering from burnout or depression.” Sarah and Mireille were going through a difficult period. Mireille experienced several burnouts following suffering a management that granted her little recognition. Sarah was ejected from her company two years before retirement, following back surgery. Nordic walking helped them up the slope.
Developed in France by academics specializing in the link between physical activity and depression, “I walk for my morale“was set up for the first time in 2022 in Nancy. It is now accessible in Belgium, in association with the hospital center of Braine-l’Alleud.
The starting point is as follows: physical activity has been scientifically recognized for twenty years as a tool to fight once morest depression, but it is difficult to motivate yourself alone, when you feel drained of all your energy. “Even washing myself was complicated“, specifies Mireille. Sports clubs are not an alternative, however, because depression often rhymes with loss of self-confidence and fear of the gaze of others.
“I walk for my morale” therefore proposes to meet with people suffering from depression, under the supervision of a coach, to practice Nordic walking and get back on the road, by finding a new connection to their body and to nature.
In conclusion, “I walk for my morale” is a wonderful initiative for those who are struggling with depression or burnout. Nordic walking has proven to be an effective and enjoyable form of physical activity that can help improve mental health. By providing a supportive environment with a coach and other individuals who understand what it’s like to face these challenges, “I walk for my morale” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to boost their morale and overall well-being. We hope that this program continues to expand and reach more people in need of this type of support.
