THISTLES, STIRLING TO HOST FREE MENTAL HEALTH EVENT FOR ALL AGES

In support of Mental Health Awareness Week, Thistles shopping centre in Stirling is continuing its efforts to support the  local community by hosting its first ‘Zen Den’ to help shoppers relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.

On 20 May between 11am and 3pm, free-to-attend interactive activities suitable for all ages will be available within the centre. Located outside of HMV, the Zen Den will include yoga and meditation sessions led by Amaroo Therapies Stirling.  Taking place every half hour, the session will offer a great way to unwind, refresh and set yourself up for the week ahead. For the younger ages, kids’ relaxation sessions and a colouring station will be part of the day, giving children a creative outlet for their energy. A cart offering goodies, refreshments and information on mental wellbeing will also be available.

Partnering with local charity, Action in Mind, donations will be welcomed but not necessary to participate. These will help the charity to continue supporting and enabling people to achieve good mental health and wellbeing; to develop their full potential, realise their hopes and aspirations, and to lead fulfilling lives.

The event comes as part of Thistles’ ongoing initiative #ThistlesHelps which offers support to the local community and charities through fundraising and free events, all adding to the centre’s existing range of retail outlets, cafes and eateries.

Gary Turnbull, Centre Director at Thistles, said: “We are dedicated to promoting wellness and mindfulness within our community. The Zen Den yoga sessions and meditation will provide a nurturing environment for individuals to prioritise their mental wellbeing. Action in Mind do amazing work within the community and we’re grateful to be able to support them with this event as their commitment to supporting mental health aligns seamlessly with our values. We would encourage people in the area to pop in and give it a try and learn how to recognise signs of stress either within yourself or others.”

An Action in Mind spokesperson, said: “Action in Mind is a long-established charity within Stirling which provides a range of services for children and adults to support their mental health and wellbeing.  Our services include Befriending, Hub services, Rural support, Home Support and Counselling services, including those in schools.  We are delighted to partner with Thistles in such a positive initiative, particularly pertinent to Mental Health Awareness Week.”

To find out more about the Zen Den, please visit: https://www.thistlesstirling.com/events/zen-den/