Supporting the Community With Every Step

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Burlington’s Kris Fabbri knows the recipe for feeling good. “Sunlight, fresh air, and movement help our brains produce happy neurotransmitters which in turn helps us feel mentally better,” says Fabbri, a psychotherapist and owner of Sh;ft Studios in Woburn. And this October, the fourth annual Miles for Mental Health event combines all three ingredients in a celebration of mental health, movement, and community support.

Why a physical fitness event to raise awareness about mental health? Fabbri, who founded the event in 2023, has both personal and clinical experience with the connection between the two. “I learned at a young age that getting involved with physical activity was one of my greatest forms of anxiety relief,” she said. “The connection between physical and mental health is incredibly strong. You can’t have one without the other.”

This year, the event brings back a self-paced walk/run/roll, combined with the energy of DJ Adam Averback, food donated by local businesses, and vendor tables with information and resources for mental health support. Fabbri thinks of it as a “rolling fitness festival” where anyone of any physical ability or age can participate in their own way.

Rather than focusing on a time or distance goal, participants are encouraged to “do what’s best for your body and your mind that day,” said Fabbri. Strollers, wheelchairs, and other assistive devices are welcome, as are children and pets.

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Over 100 participants came together for the event last year, and Fabbri hopes the tally continues to grow. “Moving our bodies together outside in a way that feels good and joyful with music and a community of people around you is a wonderful way to celebrate our health and realize physical activity doesn’t have to be painful or punishing; it should be a celebration of what our bodies can do.”

Miles for Mental Health will take place Sunday, October 4, from 10:00 to 1:00 at the Marshall Simonds Middle School track. Registration will be $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event; children 12 and under are free. The event is also sponsored by local businesses. All proceeds will go toward mental health and social support for community members. Register at www.shiftstudios.me.