Residents in Andover will continue to benefit from Yoga for Wellbeing, thanks to renewed funding secured by local charities Valley Leisure Ltd and Andover Mind.
Delivered in partnership with Andover Mind, Yoga for Wellbeing is an inclusive programme designed to help adults living with mental health challenges move more and feel better. The project was initially funded in 2024 by Energise Me, Hampshire’s Active Partnership, and focuses on supporting those with anxiety, depression, and other forms of mental health problems through accessible, supportive yoga sessions.
Following patient feedback from all five GP surgeries in Andover, there was a clear demand for more opportunities to be active. Patients expressed a desire to feel calmer, more confident, healthier, and more energised—but also highlighted barriers, such as lack of confidence, concerns about cost, and fear of judgement. Yoga was identified as a particularly suitable activity to address these concerns, providing both physical and emotional benefits in a safe, welcoming environment.
Between November 2024 and March 2025, 18 individuals living with mental health problems and other long-term health conditions participated in the programme. Weekly sessions were led by experienced instructor Naomi Hurst (Doda Yoga) and supported by a Peer Support Worker at Andover Mind. Each session combined gentle movement, stretching, breathwork, relaxation, and refreshments, creating a nurturing and trusted space where participants felt able to connect, share experiences, and support one another.
“I love coming every week. I’ve lived in the UK for 10 years but haven’t really made friends—this is the only place I feel comfortable enough to share.”
— Yoga for Wellbeing participant
The impact of the programme has exceeded expectations. Participants have reported greater self-confidence, a renewed sense of purpose, and improved ability to manage symptoms of mental ill-health using techniques learned in sessions—such as breathing exercises and grounding practices.
One participant shared how they used breathing strategies at an airport to manage anxiety, while another described using techniques at home during stressful moments with their children.
“Yoga is a tool in your toolbox, to help you cope with daily life.”
— Yoga for Wellbeing participant
“Yoga won’t cure your symptoms, but it will help provide you with respite from them.”
— Yoga for Wellbeing participant
Beyond the sessions themselves, the programme has inspired many to pursue additional activities including walking, sport, therapy, and gardening. Others reported improvements in sleep, digestion, confidence in social situations, and motivation to seek further mental health support.
Valley Leisure Ltd is delighted to confirm that, thanks to sustained funding, the programme will continue in Andover enabling those looking to improve their mental wellbeing to gain access to the programme free of charge.
Yoga for Wellbeing embraces the Five Ways to Wellbeing—Be Active, Take Notice, Learn, Connect, and Give—promoted by Andover Mind. The need for such interventions is significant. Data from the Hampshire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment reveals that 13.3% of people in Test Valley are registered with depression (higher than the national average), while local PCN data suggests nearly 15,000 patients in Andover have an active diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or both. Despite this, one in five residents is classified as physically inactive.
“It’s definitely more rewarding working with underserved members of the community—something I hadn’t experienced on this scale before.”
— Naomi Hurst, Yoga Instructor
“I’ve made new friends. I’ve started going to therapy. I even ate a banana in front of people—something I never thought I’d be able to do.”
— Participant with an eating disorder
Interested in joining the next Yoga for Wellbeing course starting on Tuesday 9th September?
Find out more or register your interest:
🌐 https://www.icantherapycentre.co.uk/yoga-for-wellbeing/
📞 Call: 0300 373 1066
✉️ Email: yogaforwellbeing@icanmovemore.co.uk
