October is International Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to pause, reflect, and nurture the most important part of our wellbeing, our mind.

At Tigerlilly, we believe that true wellness is beautifully holistic. It’s not just about how we look, but how we feel, move, and show up for ourselves every day. One of the most powerful ways to support your mental health is through movement.

Whether it’s a yoga flow at sunrise, a walk along the beach, or a quick stretch between emails, moving your body is one of the simplest, most effective ways to bring balance, clarity, and calm to your mind.

Why Movement Matters for Mental Health

Our minds and bodies are deeply connected. When we move, we do more than just strengthen muscles, we stimulate the brain, boost mood-enhancing chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, and reduce stress hormones like cortisol.

Regular movement helps to:

• Improve focus and cognitive function

• Relieve anxiety and symptoms of depression

• Increase resilience to stress

• Enhance sleep quality

• Boost self-esteem and energy levels

Movement is medicine, not just for the body, but for the mind too.

Finding Mindful Ways to Move

You don’t need to be an athlete or spend hours in the gym to experience the mental benefits of movement. It’s all about finding moments that reconnect you with yourself.

Here are a few ways to start:

Yoga & Stretching:
Gentle yoga or mindful stretching releases tension and encourages stillness (with the right equipment). Focus on your breath work which will anchor the mind and help regulate the nervous system.

Walking Outdoors:
Step outside and let nature do its magic. Walking in natural light helps regulate mood and gives your mind space to rest, reflect, and recharge.

Strength Training:
Building strength can build confidence, physically and mentally. It’s a reminder of your inner resilience and capacity for growth.

Dance & Free Movement:
Put on your favourite playlist, activewear and just move. Dancing is a joyful form of expression that releases endorphins and clears emotional energy.

Active Hobbies:
Gardening, swimming, surfing, hiking, any activity that gets you moving and brings you joy is a form of mindful exercise.

Movement as Self-Care

As we move through Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s remind ourselves that movement is not about perfection, it’s about presence. It’s showing up for yourself in ways that help you feel grounded, centred, and at peace.

So this October, make time to move, for your mind, your mood, and your overall wellbeing. Whether it’s ten minutes or an hour, every movement matters.

Your body will thank you.
Your mind will too.