So I’m running a half marathon. Yeah, that’s happening. Having never run before 6 months ago I’m not entirely confident in this decision, and my body is wondering why I waited 33 years to start doing exercise instead of cracking on when I was young and full of beans, but caution has been thrown to the wind and Edinburgh half marathon here I come! Edinburgh, hmmm sounds hilly...

Running has become very important to me of late, giving me a healthier mind and body and getting me through some tough times. It has also had it’s fair share of humiliations as people generally stroll past me at a gentle walking pace when I’m at full sprint, but that can’t be helped. It’s all character building. Right!?

As my running guru Holly Hooper says, Mental health and well-being is important to us all, and something we both feel passionate talking about. We’ve all probably experienced difficulties of some sort throughout our lives (some of us may be dealing with it right now) and it can feel very shameful and isolating. Dorset Mind do an incredible job supporting people suffering with mental health issues and if I am going to put myself through the ritual humiliation of race day I can’t think of any better cause to do it for. There is help out there if you are suffering. Check out their website (https://dorsetmind.uk/), talk to your GP or a friend or call steps to wellbeing - support is out there.

Much love everyone, wish me luuuuuuuck!

Joe