Continuing our commitment to support NHS staff during the current crisis, Breathe have recently launched a new online programme, Breathe Dance for Staff Wellbeing.

In the first two weeks of launching the programme, over 140 NHS staff signed up to take part in the free class, which fuses together different dance styles including contemporary, ballet, jazz and street dance, led by dance practitioner Georgia Heighway.

75% of participants who completed a pre-programme questionnaire said their working life had changed ‘a huge amount’ during COVID-19, with 100% of respondents saying they’d experienced a change to their work pattern.

Breathe Dance for Staff Wellbeing offers a weekly creative outlet helping to relax and unwind through physical movement, stretching and learning short routines to mood boosting tunes!

It’s clear from participants that this online class helps to bridge the gap of their regular activities that support wellbeing that there is currently no access to, such as the gym or group exercise classes:

“I’ve been working from home since the end of March so I’ve been unable to go swimming or attend my weekly Zumba class therefore I haven’t been able to do much cardio exercise, and the dance classes have been perfect for me. Georgia has a great energy and enthusiasm, and is able to keep us motivated and engaged for the hour. She’s also been choosing some great classic tracks to dance (and sing) to too! After each class I feel energised and motivated and feel as though I’ve actually done some cardio exercise and just have an overall good feeling.” Sharon Hudswell, Assistant Service Manager, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS

“That was so good! I’d been hunched over the laptop all day, so stiff but now I can move again – great music & moves!” Breathe Dance for staff wellbeing participant

Breathe Dance for Staff Wellbeing is free and open to all Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS staff. Sign up to dance with us via this online form: https://breatheahr.org/breathe-dance-for-staff-signup/

For more information, please contact Project Manager Natalie, natalie@breatheahr.org