Healthy Minds & Bodies Challenge 2025 with ‘Eye to Eye Counselling’ & ‘Snap Fitness Pontyclun’

‘Eye to Eye Counselling’ charity and ‘Snap Fitness Pontyclun' are launching a competition that brings a more mindful approach to mental and physical wellbeing

30 Days of Mindful Movements…

Eye to Eye Counselling, in partnership with Snap Fitness Pontyclun, is excited to announce a competition that offers young adults the chance to win a full 12-month gym membership. But this isn't just any ordinary fitness competition – its approach recognises the inseparable connection between physical activity and mental wellness.

The "30 Days of Mindful Movement" challenge invites young people aged between 18-30 from across the entire Cwm Taf Morgannwg area to vlog their mindful movement journeys and reflections on the impact it has had on their mental wellbeing.

You will create a single vlog (maximum 2-minute duration) documenting your 30-day journey, incorporating:

• Movement Showcase: Clips of any form of physical activity (walking, dancing, gardening, sports, yoga – creativity encouraged!)

• Mental Health Reflections: Personal narration on mood changes, energy levels, and emotional breakthroughs

• Creative Expression: Visual storytelling showing how movement impacts their mental space

• Community Connection: Evidence of acts of kindness or community support throughout the journey

The winner will be selected based on creativity, consistency, and demonstration of the mind-body connection rather than fitness achievements or physical transformation.

The Research…

Research demonstrates that the impact of physical activity on mental health is particularly significant among young adults navigating the pressures of modern life. For 18-30 year olds, this life stage often brings unique stressors: uncertainties, relationship changes, financial pressures, and the ongoing effects of social media comparison culture (Arnett, 2014, "Emerging Adulthood: The Winding Road from the Late Teens Through the Twenties").

The Stats…

• 1 in 4 young adults in Wales experience mental health challenges annually (Welsh Government Health Statistics, 2023)

• Anxiety and depression rates have increased by 35% in the 18-30 age group over the past five years (Office for National Statistics Mental Health Survey, 2024)

• Physical inactivity is linked to a 20-30% increased risk of depression (Schuch et al., 2020, Journal of Psychiatric Research)

Activity Solution…

Exercise is a natural antidepressant, releasing endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine – the brain's "feel-good" chemicals. Research demonstrates that just 30 minutes of moderate activity can:

• Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by up to 20% (Rosenbaum et al., 2021, Sports Medicine)

• Improve sleep quality and cognitive function (Reid et al., 2019, Sleep Medicine Reviews)

• Boost self-esteem and body confidence (Lubans et al., 2016, Psychology of Sport and Exercise)

• Provide healthy coping mechanisms for stress (Kandola et al., 2019, Depression and Anxiety)

Dr Sarah Williams, a sports psychologist specialising in young adult mental health, explains: "The beauty of physical activity for mental wellness isn't about achieving perfect fitness – it's about the immediate psychological benefits. Even a 10-minute walk can shift your mental state, providing clarity, reducing cortisol levels, and creating space for emotional processing."

Breaking Down Barriers…

Sometimes gym environments can feel intimidating for young people already struggling with mental health challenges. This competition specifically addresses these barriers by:

Emphasising Inclusion Over Performance: The challenge celebrates all forms of movement, recognising that mental health benefits come from consistency and enjoyment rather than intensity or achievement.

Building Community Connection: Participants become part of a supportive network, countering the isolation often experienced by young adults with mental health challenges.

Promoting Sustainable Habits: Rather than extreme fitness goals, the focus is on developing lifelong patterns that support ongoing mental wellness.

Partnership with Snap Fitness Pontyclun…

Our charity has been supporting young people's mental health for over three decades, providing accessible, non-judgmental counselling services and community support programmes. Our approach emphasises holistic wellness, recognising that mental health support extends far beyond traditional therapy.

Snap Fitness Pontyclun offers a welcoming, non-intimidating fitness environment with 24-hour access, making it perfect for young adults with varying schedules and comfort levels. Their community-focused approach aligns perfectly with our own values of inclusion and support.

Together, we are encouraging mental health support that recognises the interconnected nature of physical and emotional wellbeing.

How to enter…

• Competition is open to young people aged 18–30 living within the Cwm Taf Morgannwg area

• No prior fitness experience necessary

• All mental health backgrounds welcome

The Prize…

• 12-month membership to Snap Fitness Pontyclun

• Free, confidential counselling sessions with Eye to Eye Counselling (up to 6 sessions initially)

Sign up…

1. Email: info@eyetoeye.wales

2. Complete your 30 days of Mindful Movement

3. Create and submit your VLOGs by 30^th November 2025

4. Winners announced in December 2025

Administration: The competition will be administered by ‘Eye to Eye Counselling’, and participant well-being remains the top priority throughout the process.

Please note that VLOGs submitted may be shared on our websites and social media sites to highlight the important correlation between physical and emotional well-being, unless you request otherwise.

Beyond the Competition…

Each Participant will gain:

• Increased understanding of the mind-body connection

• Practical tools for managing mental health through movement

• Connection to local mental health and fitness resources

• A supportive peer network

• Enhanced self-awareness and emotional regulation skills

This initiative represents a broader shift towards preventative mental health care, recognising that community-based, holistic approaches can be just as powerful as traditional therapeutic interventions.

Are you Ready?... Sign up today!

For more information or to register:

• Email: al.harley@eyetoeye.wales

• Phone: 01443 202940

• Website: www.eyetoeye.wales

• Social Media: Follow @EyeToEyeCounselling and @SnapFitnessPontyclun for updates and inspiration

Please remember that this competition content may be shared across both ‘Eye to Eye Counselling’ and ‘Snap Fitness 24/7 Pontyclun’ social media platforms and websites to reach and support as many young people as possible.