Why 2025 Was Special for PSO
PSO continued to deliver green therapy and Healthy Hikes, helping people connect with nature, each other and themselves through mindfulness, movement and community. Across Ireland and Northern Ireland we saw increased participation, diverse groups taking part, and real evidence of positive wellbeing benefits. We wanted to highlight three programmes that demonstrate how our service benefits a broad range of people and organisations.
🥾 Healthy Hikes at Divis & Black Mountain for a Charity Supporting Disadvantaged People
What happened
- Five guided hikes at Divis & Black Mountain in early 2025, in partnership with Storehouse Belfast and funded by the Public Health Agency’s Clear Project. Read more here.
Who joined
- 52 people from disadvantaged communities, including refugees and asylum seekers.
What we did
- Walked to the summit of Divis and across Black Mountain.
- Combined hiking with mindfulness and reflective practices.
- Provided gear from Alpkit Foundation and lunches from Stepping Stones.
Why it mattered
- 64 % of participants saw measurable wellbeing improvements using the Warwick-Edinburgh scale.
- Nature, mindful walking and community helped reduce stress, boost mood and build friendships.
Real impact (voices)
Participants said they felt refreshed, invigorated, and welcomed, with many highlighting the social and emotional connection fostered during the hikes.
🏞️ Green Therapy in the Mournes for University Students and Staff
What happened
- A group of 19 students and staff from Queen’s University Belfast took part in a green therapy hike in the Mourne Mountains.
What we did
- Warm-up body activation and mindful breathing.
- Followed the Ott Track and crossed the Mourne Wall.
- Climbed to the peak of Doan for spectacular views. Read more here
Why it mattered
- Combined physical challenge with mindful pauses to reconnect with nature.
- Enhanced wellbeing through shared outdoor experiences.
Key takeaway
Outdoor settings like the Mournes support both physical effort and mindful rest, creating space for clarity and calm.
At the summit of Doan Mountain
🌄 Healthy Hike for Young People in Donegal
What happened
- PSO teamed up with Donegal Youth Service, Young Social Innovators and the Alpkit Foundation for a hike north of Muckish Mountain.
Who joined
- A group of young people, many experiencing hill terrain and navigation for the first time. Read more here.
What we did
- Started at the Greenway and climbed through wild trails.
- Young people took turns leading navigation and group roles.
- Mindfulness session and reflective conversations on the mountain.
Why it mattered
- Built confidence, leadership and team connection.
- Coaching on the move helped young people reflect and grow.
In the shadow of Muckish Mountain, Donegal
🌱 What 2025 Tells Us
People and Place
- Connecting people to special outdoor places, from Black Mountain’s skyline views to the Mournes’ rugged peaks and Donegal’s wild slopes, highlights how impactful movement combined with meaningful engagement with landscapes can be in promoting positive mental health.
Mindfulness + Movement
Combining physical activity with mindful pauses supports wellbeing by:
- lowering stress,
- increasing awareness,
- strengthening social bonds.
This is at the heart of PSO’s green therapy approach.
Community Impact
Across all events, participants:
- formed friendships,
- felt welcome and supported,
- experienced nature as a source of calm and joy.
📌 Final Thought
2025 showed that when we bring people together in nature no matter where they started from, great things happen, friendships form, confidence grows, and wellbeing improves. PSO has built a year of experiences that not only moved bodies but also lifted spirits. We are excited as we plan for more opportunities to support people in 2026. If you’d like to know more and find out how we can help the please you care about please get in touch.