Building Community Through Fitness and Connection
An Interview with Kerry Turner from the People’s Health Alliance (PHA)
Kerry Turner from the People’s Health Alliance, the PHA
The People’s Health Alliance (PHA) is a volunteer-driven organisation dedicated to bringing communities together to support their health and well-being. By harnessing the power of community, PHA creates spaces where people can connect, improve their mental and physical health, and access holistic health resources.
One of PHA’s standout initiatives Wellbeing Wednesday is a series of online meetings created and hosted by Kerry, an experienced fitness specialist. These sessions provide an accessible way for people to learn about fitness, motivation, and overall well-being. With a wealth of recorded sessions available on PHA’s comprehensive website, individuals can easily join in at their own pace and begin their wellness journey. There are several types of fitness styles making variety a key feature in enjoyable fitness activities.
The website also features a practitioner directory that includes a diverse range of professionals: from dentists, chiropractors, energy healers, mental health therapists to breathwork practitioners, making it easier for individuals to find the support they need.
The Power of a Simple Cup of Tea:
The Birth of ‘Fancy a Cuppa’
Beyond Wellbeing Wednesday, Kerry has initiated a remarkable project called Fancy a Cuppa, which has grown into a thriving support and friendship group. What started as a simple idea with her mum, inviting people for a cup of tea, has blossomed into a close-knit community of over 20 members who meet weekly to share conversation, laughter and various activities.
Kerry’s advice to those looking to start something similar is simple: “Start small. Find a location. Maybe ask your local church hall and invite others to come and have a cup of tea. Watch it grow.”
And grow it has. Beyond just tea, the group now enjoys activities such as crafts, fitness exercises and social interaction through a WhatsApp group. The impact of Fancy a Cuppa goes beyond physical activity. It fosters connection, combats loneliness, creates a safe and welcoming space for individuals, especially those who have lost loved ones, retired, or simply wish to engage with their community.
Fitness as a Gateway to Well-being
Many people perceive exercise as demanding, painful, time-consuming and a chore. However, Kerry emphasises that fitness doesn’t have to be difficult to be beneficial. Movement, in any form, changes our body’s chemistry, improves mindset, enhances bodily functions, and can even bring a smile to our faces.
From chair fitness and standing exercises to more advanced activities, there’s something for everyone. Kerry encourages people to find what works for them and incorporate movement into their daily routine. Community-based fitness offers additional benefits, such as fostering social connections, reducing loneliness, and bringing joy through shared experiences.
Kerry is one of our featured presenters at The Better Way for Mental Wellbeing online conference event on Saturday 15th March 2025. It’s a Free event so come and experience the benefits of what can be done online.
The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors
One of the most enjoyable ways to stay active is by exercising outside. It offers numerous benefits, including:
Boosting Mood and Reducing Stress – Natural light and fresh air increase serotonin and endorphin levels, helping to reduce stress and improve overall mood.
Increasing Vitamin D Levels – Sunlight is essential for vitamin D production, which supports bone health, immune function, and mental well-being.
Enhancing Workout Effectiveness – Varied outdoor terrains naturally challenge balance, coordination, and endurance more than indoor settings.
Encouraging Social Connection – Outdoor group activities promote interaction, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.
Saving Money – Exercising outside is free, eliminating the need for costly gym memberships or specialised equipment.
Offering Variety – Outdoor spaces provide diverse options, from walking and cycling to bodyweight exercises in parks.
Improving Mental Clarity – Being in nature reduces mental fatigue, enhances focus, and encourages mindfulness.
Supporting Longevity – Studies suggest spending time outdoors contributes to a longer and healthier life.
As Fancy a Cuppa groups continue to grow, Kerry dreams of connecting them all. Perhaps through online meetings, to create a nationwide (or even global) network of support and friendship.
A Call to Action: Get Involved!
Kerry’s message is clear: We can all do something to improve our health and well-being. Whether it’s joining a community fitness session, starting a local meet-up, or simply reaching out to someone for a chat over a cup of tea or coffee, small steps can lead to big changes.
For those looking to get involved, PHA’s resources, including Wellbeing Wednesday videos and the practitioner directory are fantastic starting points. And if you’re inspired by Kerry’s Fancy a Cuppa initiative, why not start your own group and experience the magic of community connection?
“Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of tea to change a life!”.
Check out the PHA resources and practitioner directories.
Don’t miss this uplifting conversation as British Isles Steering Committee member and behavioural expert Maureen Fearon interviews Kerry Turner.
Get your ticket and join us for the Free event The Better Way for Mental Wellbeing Saturday.
