Singing Walks

This article explains how singing and spending time in nature with others can support mental wellbeing. It looks at how shared walking and singing activities give people a creative way to express themselves, feel less isolated and build a sense of community. By coming together outdoors, people can find connection, confidence and support through simple, shared experiences.

Watch the video and explore how simple acts of connection and creativity could support your mental wellbeing.

Ayoub Boukhalfa is an artist, singer songwriter and performer who co-facilitates music workshops with WOW Choir and has recently founded a choir for LGBTQ+ communities. Fluent in Arabic, French and English, and now weaving Welsh songs into his performances, Ayoub’s work celebrates cultural exchange and the power of shared music.

As a trained lowland walk leader, Ayoub leads monthly ‘Singing Walks’ with people seeking sanctuary, delivered as part of an Arts Council Wales Arts and Health funded project in partnership with Ramblers Cymru, CAVAMH and Cardiff Mind. These walks bring together nature, movement and group singing to support wellbeing and reduce the social isolation often experienced by refugees and asylum seekers.

Research shows that singing can be good for the body as well as the mind, as it can help lower blood pressure, steady breathing and heart rate, reduce stress and ease some of the effects of trauma.

For many people seeking sanctuary, activities like Singing Walks offer a chance to talk, listen and share what they’re carrying with others who understand.

At a time when negative stories, misinformation and negative rhetoric about people seeking sanctuary are  widespread, projects like Singing Walks help share a different narrative. Through celebratory, thoughtful and life affirming performances, WOW Choir’s work encourages moments of connection, solidarity and shared humanity, challenging stereotypes, shifting mindsets and fostering welcome.

Ayoub’s story demonstrates that even simple, shared experiences can help us feel more connected, supported and able to manage life’s challenges.

For those interested in exploring similar opportunities, organisations such as Ramblers Cymru and Community Music Wales offer a range of ways to get involved, whether through walking groups, music activities or other community-based experiences that bring people together.

If you would like to read more about how activities like singing and spending time outside can help you manage life’s challenges visit The Joy of Singing – Hapus and Daily dose of nature for wellbeing – Hapus