As the winter and holiday season approaches, we recognize that grief, stress, and mental health challenges can be especially overwhelming. Improving our physical health can positively impact mental well-being, potentially saving lives. Windsor’s Move Through the Darkness Challenge benefitting Imagine Zero of Weld County was established to inspire individuals to care for their mental wellness through physical activity and time spent outdoors. This inclusive, self-led, two-month, no-cost event fosters a community dedicated to building skills and habits that support mental health throughout the winter. During the challenge, encouragement, resources are available to participants, helping them “move through” difficult times.
Running Marathon
“Move Through The Darkness is a zero-cost challenge that empowers people to run, walk or exercise – in hopes of making an
impact on the lack of movement, depression and suicide we see in the winter months,” says Mandy Mullen, owner of run.Wind
sor. “Participants pledge a certain amount of physical activity while receiving free access to weekly professional speakers, in-person events like group walks/runs, and more.”
How the Challenge Works:
• The challenge runs from December 1st to January 31st.
• Participants sign up individually or with a team, committing to a set number of miles to walk or run.
• Throughout December and January, they log their progress on the challenge website at https:// www.movethrough.org.
• Along the way, participants gain access to resources promoting strategies for physical and mental health.
• Participants who reach their goals by the challenge’s end earn awards and recognition.
John O’Rand, a past participant, shared, “At the end of last year, I was not motivated to do much; it was cold with long dark days. I found that MTD got me out and moving around, it helped me find a strong support team that encouraged and motivated me to get more out of each day.”
This winter, run.Windsor and Imagine Zero of Weld County invite you to take an active role in supporting your mental, motion
al, and physical health. Register for the challenge and encourage friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors to join you as you “Move Through the Darkness.” Registration opens on November 1. Visit https://www.movethrough.org/.
The event is made possible through community donations and the generous support of sponsors. Visit https://form.jotform.
com/223063488521051 to become a sponsor or donate today.