When people think about wellbeing, they often imagine something that requires lots of time, money or effort. Gym memberships, expensive retreats, complicated routines or major lifestyle changes all spring to mind.
But in reality, supporting wellbeing is often much simpler than that.
The Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation, believes wellbeing should be accessible to everyone. It shouldn’t feel intimidating, exclusive or out of reach. Instead, it should be something that is built into everyday life through small, consistent actions.
The Arthur Ellis approach is based around five key wellbeing pillars: Move, Focus, Discover, Communicate and Help.
These pillars are based on evidence-backed behaviours that support positive mental health. Whether it’s taking a walk, spending time with friends, learning a new skill, practising mindfulness or helping someone in the community, these actions might seem small – but they have a huge impact on how we feel.
“Wellbeing shouldn’t be something we only think about when we’re struggling,” said Jon Manning, Founder of The Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation. “Actually, the best time to support our mental health is before we need support. That’s why we created the Summer Festival two years ago. The event helps people discover simple, enjoyable ways to build wellbeing into their everyday lives, whether that’s through movement, connection, learning something new or giving back to their community.”
The Summer Festival will be held on Sunday August 23, from 12pm, at Great Linford Manor Park.
After a fantastic response over the last two years, where thousands of people attended throughout the day, the festival is designed to help people experience wellbeing in a practical, engaging and family-friendly way.
Rather than simply talking about mental health, the event brings the five wellbeing pillars to life through activities, experiences and opportunities to connect with others. Visitors can explore different ways to support their wellbeing, discover local organisations, enjoy great food and spend time with family and friends in a beautiful setting.
The festival is completely free to attend because Arthur Ellis believes wellbeing support should be available to everyone, regardless of age, background or circumstance.
For local businesses, the event also highlights an important point: wellbeing doesn’t start and end in the workplace. Healthy workplaces are built on healthy communities. When people feel connected, supported and able to prioritise their wellbeing, the positive effects extend into every aspect of life, including work.
As conversations around mental health continue to grow, prevention remains just as important as support. Creating opportunities for people to move, connect, discover and contribute can make a meaningful difference long before someone reaches crisis point.
The Summer Festival isn’t about fixing mental health challenges. It’s about helping people build the habits, connections and experiences that support wellbeing before those challenges arise.
It is hoped the festival will once again bring people together, spark conversations and demonstrate that wellbeing doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes it simply starts with showing up, getting involved and taking one small positive step.
Opportunities are available for businesses that would like to be involved with volunteering and sponsorship of the festival
Email hello@arthurellismhs.com to find out more and register an interest. To find out more about The Arthur Ellis Summer Festival, visit their website.
