January can feel heavy for many of us. Cold mornings, short days, and that post-Christmas comedown can take their toll. One simple thing that consistently lifts my mood at this time of year? Getting outside and hiking. Last Sunday, I joined a group hike in the Peak District with an organisation called Summit’s Up. They run guided hikes specifically to support mental health — helping people get outdoors, connect with others, and move their bodies in a supportive, non-judgemental environment. What I really love about their approach is that the hikes are open to everyone — whether it’s your first hill or your fiftieth. Mental health doesn’t discriminate, and neither do they. They also fundraise through their hikes, with money raised going towards urgent therapy for people who need it most — turning a day in nature into something that has a real, lasting impact. Shared challenge. Open conversations. Big skies and steady steps forward. Sometimes improving mental health doesn’t start with a big intervention — it starts with putting one foot in front of the other. If January is feeling tough, I’d really encourage you to consider getting outside — or joining one of their hikes: 👉 www.summitsup.co.uk

Posted by Alison Snee at 2026-01-27 07:47:04 UTC