February 2012
Three-year-old sets of twins
Amelie Moon, Zoe Moon, Elliot Thomas and Amelie Thomas at the launch of
VicHealth’s MOTION program (Picture: VicHealth David Marks).
Projects combine arts and action for better health
Seven unique projects funded under VicHealth’s MOTION pilot program will promote arts, physical activity and social connection.
The innovative $650,000 VicHealth MOTION pilot program, launched at the Melbourne Museum by Minister for Health David Davis, is about improving people’s health through opportunities to get creative, active and involved in the local community.
‘Research shows getting involved in the arts can benefit people’s mental health and wellbeing, improving confidence and self-worth and providing opportunities for self-expression.
‘Although Victorians display a great love of sport, our levels of physical activity in the general population are not as high as they could be.
‘Promoting physical activity and mental health are priorities for maintaining the health of Victorians in the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Plan,’ Mr Davis said.
‘Through MOTION, VicHealth and the Government are contributing to the growing body of research evidence exploring the health benefits of arts activities that not only build social connection but also increase physical activity.’
• For more information about these activities visit www.vichealth.vic.gov.au/motion.
