MENTAL HEALTH

Early Days – Yoga

The Loft Collective’s approach to mental health began with the idea of offering yoga classes — both free monthly sessions and paid regular classes — to improve mobility, provide gentle exercise for older participants or those with physical challenges, and foster community connection.

While funding and public liability insurance for in-person classes did not come through, the Collective focused on alternative ways to support mental wellbeing without relying on external resources. We also reflected on what we can do as individuals, without major resources, to keep the project going.

Art Therapy

In the summer of 2025, the focus shifted to art as a means of supporting mental health. Several live TikTok sessions, later documented on YouTube, explored sketchbooking and colouring as gentle ways to relieve stress, enhance focus, and encourage creative reflection.

Walks for Mental Health

The Collective also began exploring North Ayrshire and Argyll and Bute through solo walks and day trips, connecting with local nature while documenting these trips in short films to highlight the area’s towns, landscapes, and hidden gems.

Future Plans

Once public liability insurance is secured, the Collective aims to return to offering yoga classes in Saltcoats and online. Plans also include organising hikes and day trips to promote the mental health benefits of nature. Online art sessions will continue to be offered for free, maintaining accessible and approachable to support mental wellbeing.