Scottish Ballet warm-ups for on-shift health and care workers

SCOTTISH Ballet is collaborating with NHS Scotland to present a fortnightly package of movement exercises for on-duty staff.

Its Health at Hand programme of breathing and movement sessions has been created to boost physical and mental health, and alleviate some of the effects of working long shifts.

Created in consultation with the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland, Scottish Ballet’s engagement team are filming a package of three video sessions every two weeks. These are available via Scottish Ballet’s YouTube channel.

The 10-minute sessions are tailored to warm the body at the start of a shift, create physical and mental balance during breaks, and release stress at the end of shifts.

Small groups of staff, together in offices or corridors, can follow along on YouTube using a laptop or smartphone during handover or team time. Although designed for health workers, they can be accessed by anyone.

Scottish Ballet has been attracting weekly online views of up to 65,000 for its dance health classes, designed to engage with communities across Scotland.

Chief executive and artistic director of Scottish Ballet, Christopher Hampson, said: "At Scottish Ballet, dance is our primary way of connecting with communities. We are committed to sharing our work beyond the stage, and proud to be collaborating with the Scottish Government and NHS Scotland to bring the benefits of movement to support front-line workers at this time."

Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey said: "I am really pleased that Scottish Ballet has partnered with NHS Scotland to offer practical ways for health and social care workers to support their mental health and wellbeing through exercise and movement."

For more information and view the videos, visit www.scottishballet.co.uk/healthathand.

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