Christine Smith (Chrissy) is CEO of Mind and Sole, an organisation in Alnwick that helps people with their well-being and health.
They run walking and talking sessions, swimming dips and a multitude of classes from reading to knitting. They also facilitate support groups and peer to peer support programs which provide a safe and comfortable space for individuals to share their experiences and connect with others.
Their team of mental health professionals is committed to providing the best care possible to help people in need achieve their mental wellness goals. Here she tells us about her weekends…
Do you ever have to work weekends?
Yes, we are either dipping or working in the hub so one day is very much like another. We love our swimming sessions and can regularly be seen in safe waters around Amble and up the Northumberland coast line. Dipping is good for your soul and your general health. It makes you feel alive and has a lot of health benefits too.
Are most weekends the same?
Sometimes there are the odd weekends when the tides fall wrong, and we can’t safely swim in the open sea so that is when I can take a bit of a back seat. I’ll still be found at the Hub though.
Do you find it hard to switch off?
Yes, Mind and Sole is very active, and I often find myself planning different events when I really should be resting. I’ve got a good team around me that helps me to manage my time though.
What do you do at a weekend which you can’t fit in through the week?
I enjoy a second cup of tea without any pressure.
Morning exercise or a recovery lie in?
A lie in! My morning exercise days (apart from dipping) are long gone.
Big night out or a night in the house?
I enjoy the comforts of home so a night in is perfect.
Do you watch or play sport at a weekend?
My son plays rugby so I enjoy watching his games.
Where do you like to eat out at a weekend?
I don’t really eat out. I’m very much a person who enjoys being at home. I have recently returned from a cruise and that was a great experience. The food was amazing, and I can’t wait to go again next year.
How important is the weekend to you?
Very, it’s my time to enjoy family time.
What’s the best thing about weekends?
The feeling of no pressure to be somewhere on time or have structure.
Of a weekend, you’ll usually find me most happy..?
In the afternoon around roughly four o’clock, because I often work 8am to 8pm most days, I very rarely enjoy being in the house in the afternoons, so the weekends for me are my time to relax.
To contact Mind and Sole Alnwick mindandsole1@gmail.com
01665 603040