For Vanathy, the end of a demanding day in healthcare often begins with something simple: a walk, usually alongside a friend whose cultural background is different from her own.
The routine has become a way of dealing with the physical and emotional strain of work, while creating space for conversations about family, food, traditions and the pressures of everyday life.
“After a long day at work, being active helps me manage stress. It clears my mind and makes me feel more positive,” Vanathy said.
Her experience is being shared as part of Multicultural Health Week, which will run across NSW from 31 August to 6 September, with this year’s campaign focusing on the role physical activity can play in supporting mental health and wellbeing.
For Vanathy, the benefits of walking extend beyond exercise. Her regular walks with a friend have also become an opportunity to learn about another culture and talk openly away from the demands of the workplace.
“Our walks are about more than physical activity. We come from different cultural backgrounds, and as we walk, we share stories about our families, traditions, food, and life experiences,” she said.
“These conversations help us learn from one another and appreciate the diversity within our community. Walking together gives us time to connect, support one another, and talk openly about the challenges of work and everyday life.”
The experience reflects one of the messages NSW health authorities are seeking to promote during Multicultural Health Week: that physical activity does not necessarily require organised sport or intensive exercise.
Walking, dancing, gardening and simply moving more during the day are among the activities being promoted, with individuals, schools, workplaces and community organisations encouraged to take part.
Vanathy said even a relatively short walk could change how she felt at the end of the day.
“Even a short walk helps reduce stress and lets us return home feeling calmer, refreshed, and more positive,” she said.
Walking is only part of her routine. Dancing provides another way to switch off from work and lift her mood.
“Dancing is another activity that makes me happy. Moving to music lifts my mood, restores my energy, and helps me forget my worries for a while,” she said.
“Even when I’m tired after work, dancing quickly helps me relax and feel more cheerful.”
Time outdoors with her dog has a similar effect. “Walking my dog also brings me comfort and happiness. Being outdoors together helps me slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and appreciate life’s simple moments,” she said.
Multicultural Health Week organisers are encouraging people across NSW to share similar experiences about the relationship between physical activity and mental wellbeing. Multilingual campaign material has also been prepared for community organisations, schools and workplaces, while local events can include group walks, community dance activities, wellbeing sessions and health information programs.
For Vanathy, the value of those everyday activities lies as much in the social connection they create as in the movement itself.
“For me, physical activity supports both mental wellbeing and multicultural connection. Walking side by side reminds me that although we may come from different backgrounds, we can connect through friendship, conversation, and a shared commitment to taking care of our health,” she said.
“These simple activities help me feel calmer, happier and more balanced, allowing me to end the day with a smile.”
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
