A chance to refresh the spirit and body has been offered over the past few months in a series of taster sessions in the Maldon district.

The Body and Mind initiative has been organised by Maldon District Council and Maldon (Essex) Mind, the mental health charity and has been well received by residents.

As the sessions near the end of the first six month trial period Linda Dutaut of Maldon Mind said: "The take-up has been excellent."

She added: "Basically the aim has been to fight stress, aid relaxation and have fun at the same time."

Activites so far have included light exercise, fitness, tai chi and horse riding. Walking and sailing are two further sessions planned.

In the promotion of the free sessions organisers have said:"Body and Mind is designed to underpin the link between positive mental attitude and physical activity.

"Good physical health is about keeping active and this need not be strenuous exercise just keeping the body moving and supple and getting that oxygen to the muscles and brain.

"This is particularly important in older people and those inclined to depression. In fact scientists have found that keeping active can delay some of the ageing process of the brain, and fend off dementia."

The sixth-month trial period is drawing to a close and but there has already been several bookings for the walk and lunch session on March 15.

The last session, which is sailing, is on April 19 from 11am to 1pm.

Linda Allen, Maldon Mind general manager added: "We hope to continue after April if Maldon District Council can find the money. We also welcome suggestions for taster activities but no bungee jumping please!"

Anyone interested in finding out about the sessions can contact Linda Allen at Maldon Mind on 01621 8532211 or Chris Rust at Maldon District Council on 01621 875811, preferably during the mornings. It is possible to book transport to and from activities but it is on a first come first served basis.

Pictured at Tiptree Equestrian Centre last week for the horseriding care session are from left to right Pat Devigne, Chris Rust and Joan Sparkes

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.