Some of us might dread Monday mornings and leaving our nice warm bed to start our week. But that’s not the case for June and Sharon, who look forward to kicking off their Mondays with a brisk walk and a chat.

The pair attend AnglicareSA’s Natter and Network group every Monday morning, walking two kilometres around Playford’s Fremont Park.

“It’s a bit of conversation, exercise, and fresh air,” said Sharon, who has been regularly attending for nearly a year.

“Being out in nature as well has definitely been a boost for my mental health.”

Leonie Bush, one half of the AnglicareSA duo that facilitates Natter and Network, said there was no better way to start the week than with a walking group.

“To enjoy the fresh air and connect with others is a great start to the week.”

Apart from the Monday walking group, Natter and Network also has two adult social groups.

Recently, AnglicareSA’s Financial Wellbeing team joined in on the fun at the social group, leading a series of talks about cleaning hacks and how to save money on cleaning products.

Sharon said the Natter and Network walking group was helping her put her best foot forward.

“Walking every week has motivated me to do more fitness activities,” Sharon said.

“Leonie has been instrumental in providing contacts and other resources to tap into when June and I expressed interest in attending more exercise groups.”

Sharon and June’s friendship thrives outside of the walking group, with the two checking out a local exercise group together, and meeting up to do an extra lap of the park before Natter and Network starts.

AnglicareSA has a strong connection in Playford with adults and families, through its Communities For Children, Kids Club, HIPPY, JET Creche, and Community Connections programs.]

Leonie said Natter and Network was another offering connecting people in the community and reducing social isolation.

“Some participants tell me they’ve got housework or errands to run, but would rather come and socialise in the groups,” Leonie said.

“It’s an outlet for them to have some fun.”

 

Get nattering

Whether you’re looking to get those steps up or meet others in the local community, Natter and Network welcomes you.

Come and join Natter and Network for either or all sessions per week:

• Walking group: Mondays at 9:30am at Fremont Park, Elizabeth
• Social group: Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9:30am to 11:30am at The Platform, 73 Elizabeth Way, Elizabeth

For more information, email kidsclub@anglicaresa.com.au, or call either Leonie (0407 977 351) or Stacey (0466 822 745).