A YOGA event aimed at tackling men’s mental health has taken place in a bid to combat the stigma around discussion among males.

Helen Crane, founder of Wellbeing Worcestershire, organised the yogathon event, which took place on the park outside The Pump House Environment Centre in Gheluvelt Park on Saturday.

Miss Crane, from Worcester, said: “The day was fantastic, and The Pump House was ridiculously busy. So many people turned up. If you go to a regular yoga session there is only about five per cent who are males. However, we saw around 65 per cent of whom were male taking part.

“There was a great sense of community and the atmosphere was lovely.

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"It was all about social change and raising awareness. The idea was to destigmatise yoga being just a women’s activity.”

There were five 45-minute yoga classes plus five-minute meditations that took place throughout the day – both men and women participated. A male counsellor was also available to chat to, as well as a cognitive behavioural therapist. Four out of five of the yoga classes were delivered by a male instructor.

Miss Crane added: “In one sense, the men who took part appreciated that it is a sport and it takes strength, and yoga is something you can progress at. Many of the men who took part have said they will explore it further."

“We will be planning on doing more events that brings people in Worcester together in a fun and unique way.”

Funds have been raised for the charity Mind, however the total has not yet been counted, as donations are still coming in.