Stay present, live in the moment
Kwai Chung Hospital (KCH) organises annual activities designed for in-patients, persons-in-recovery and carers. Sports element was integrated for the first time at the end of last year by organising Nordic walking sessions. "Patients often tend to overthink which can affect their mood negatively so we chose Nordic walking, an emerging sport, as our key activity and named it ‘Step by Step'. We hope that participants can focus solely on that one step ahead, fully enjoy the present moment without overthinking, which echoes the theme of 2025 Mental Health Month, ‘Healthy Life．Healthy Mind'." shares Leung Siu-kei, a member of the KCH Mental Health Promotion Committee and Department Operations Manager (Psychiatric).
Leung and his team guided approximately 100 persons-in-recovery in experiencing Nordic walking at various locations including Lai Chi Kok Park, Wong Tai Sin Culture Garden, Tsing Yi Park and Tsiu Hang Nature Trail in Sai Kung respectively. Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) Eunice Yeung explains that Nordic walking helps patients who have experienced weight gain due to some psychiatric medication to build muscle and lose weight, while also triggering the release of serotonin to alleviate depression and anxiety. "Game elements are specifically incorporated into the programme to encourage persons-in-recovery who rarely go out to engage in more social interactions and make new friends, thus improving their social skills," adds Registered Nurse (Psychiatric) Zephyr Woo.
One of the participants, Yeuk-lam, used to suffer from asthma and swollen limbs due to her condition, which limited her ability to go out and maintain her social life. After joining the programme, she gradually developed an interest in exercise and became more outgoing. Practicing Nordic walking also made her brighter and happier, helping her meet new friends and having a more positive and stable vibe.
Looking ahead, with a strong determination to support and walk side by side with patients, persons-in-recovery, and their carers, Leung and his team will continue to craft and organise more creative programmes to support these individuals to re-integrate into the community.
