Looking for an activity that’s good for your mental health, good for your physical health, and easily accessible? Then lawn bowls might just be it. This popular pastime is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of people across the UK. Thanks to its reputation as a sport for the retired, which does it no favours, clubs across the country are actively looking for new players of any age, and most will let you try it for nothing before you commit to anything.
How Joining a Bowls Club Boosts Mental Wellbeing
Most people take up bowls because it looks like a pleasant way to spend an afternoon. The side effects that come with the game are the truly interesting bit. Here are just some of the ways that bowls can boost your mental health.
You build friendships
You’re not just playing bowls; you’re playing bowls with and against other people. Over time, those connections you make out on the lawn can translate into friendship. In an era when it can be difficult to make new friends, bowls provides a viable option, all the while having fun.
It's more exercise than it looks
Bowls is more physical than you might think. You’ll be up on your feet, bending down, and using your arms. The NHS lists lower risk of depression among the benefits of staying active, and bowls counts, even though it doesn't feel like exercise.
It can help reduce loneliness
Loneliness affects more people than you might think. Almost a quarter of UK adults told the ONS they feel lonely often, always or some of the time. A weekly fixture, with the same faces and a cup of tea afterwards, is exactly the kind of regular contact that helps.
You’ll likely improve your confidence
Trying new things can be a great confidence-booster, which can lead to improved mental wellbeing. You might not be a bowls expert right now, but it won’t be long before you’re a capable player.
Other Benefits of Lawn Bowls
Bowls doesn’t just offer mental health benefits. It offers others, too:
- Gentle Physical Activity: Standing, walking, bending, and moving your arms are all essential in bowls. You’ll be getting exercise without even realising it.
- Fresh Air and Daylight: Being outside is good for you, and outside is where many lawn bowls games happen.
- Lower Stress: Bowls is competitive, but in a relaxing way. Just playing once in a while can help to keep your stress levels in check.
- Sharper Concentration: You can’t win at bowls without concentration. It’s a good way to give your brain a workout.
- A Healthier Routine: No matter your age or fitness levels, bowls offers a pleasant way to live a little healthier.
Getting Started With Lawn Bowls
Want to start playing lawn bowls? You’re in luck. The barrier to entry is low, so you can be playing in no time at all. If you're in Essex, you'll find bowls in Chelmsford at our shop inside Falcon Bowls Club, along with everything else you need to get going. Plus, bowls clubs are extremely welcoming. They’ll be happy to see you there, and once you get started, you might just find that you’ve picked up a hobby that provides long-lasting mental and physical benefits. Give it a try!
