Mindfulness Coach Embarks on Cross-Country Walk for Mental Health Awareness

A mindfulness coach intends to walk from London to Cardiff over the Christmas period to generate donations for a mental health charity. Bhupinder Sandhu, a resident of Gravesend, Kent, is scheduled to commence his journey from Parliament Square on December 21. He plans to complete the 160 miles (257 km) to the Welsh Parliament over eight days. This will mark Mr. Sandhu’s second long-distance charity walk, following a previous trek from London to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. He explained his decision to undertake the challenge during winter was to “reflect how big the challenge” of addressing poor mental health truly is. Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, he shared that he was motivated by the latest statistics compiled by the charity Mind, for which he hopes to raise £10,000 through his walk. He stated, “One in five children or young adults is suffering from mental health problems, and two-thirds of them are not getting any help. Two million people are on the waiting list for the NHS.” He added, “We have to start our mental health revolution; this is a step in that direction, so we can make people aware; they can start talking about it.” “In the 21st century, we have advanced in every other aspect of life, but when it comes to mental health, there’s still a big taboo; we are scared to talk and be open about it.” He concluded, “We are suffering inside.” Mr. Sandhu aims to walk approximately seven hours daily and will be joined by friends at various points. He prepared by training with 5kg ankle weights to simulate the effect of rain soaking his clothes. The mindfulness coach mentioned he avoids distractions like music during his walks. He commented, “When I’m walking, I’m not thinking about anything.” He elaborated, “I’m just focussing on the step I’m taking; observe what’s around me, even if it’s wind or rain.” He has future plans to walk from London to Paris in 2025.