Walk and Talk helps boost physical and mental health
OVER 100 people attended a social stroll in Corkagh Park last Saturday to mark the launch of Walk and Talk South Dublin.
There are currently seven Walk and Talk groups in the county, which provide weekly casual walks and chats in local communities to boost physical and mental health.
The initiative was founded in Jobstown by local man Stephen Brennan in late 2022, and has since grown to include groups in Mac Uiliam, Brittas, Rowlagh, Clondalkin, Lucan and Adamstown.
The gathering in Corkagh Park brought all seven groups together and it was organised by Active South Dublin.
Darragh Conway, the active cities officer for Active South Dublin, told The Echo: “The event was the launch of Walk and Talk South Dublin and a celebration of the groups we started.
“We had over 100 people, probably half of them were from a Walk and Talk group or connected to a group, and the other half were members of the public who were interested in joining.
People enjoying the Walk and Talk in Corkagh Park
“There was a bit of music, light refreshments, and good vibes, and we did a lap of the park.”
The event also allowed participants to reflect on the impact that Walk and Talk groups are having on their communities.
“The main aim is to provide free physical activity or a weekly session people can attend in their area,” added Darragh.
“And Walk and Talk also promotes that social side, and it shows the positive effect that walking can have on your mental health.”
Thos McDermott, Head of Active South Dublin unit, with Helen Dwyer, Stephen Brennan (Jonstown Walk and Talk), Ellen Connolly and Darragh Conway in Corkagh Park
When asked what future plans are in place for Walk and Talk South Dublin, Darragh said the aim is to nurture the existing groups and potentially set up some new ones in other areas.
“We want to keep the seven groups going,” he said.
“We want to keep the leaders of those groups motivated, and potentially build on that with one or two more groups around the county.
“It would be nice to get one in Rathcoole and one in Rathfarnham, and maybe go citywide with it.”
Learn more by contacting Active South Dublin, details on their website HERE, or following them on Facebook.
