SPEAK

At our Men's Group, we understand the unique challenges men face. We are dedicated to providing a safe, supportive environment where you can connect with others, share your experiences, and work towards better mental health.

#TheRioWay

The SPEAK project is an initiative by Rio-Vitalise designed to create a nurturing environment for men struggling with mental health and well-being through our mental and phsical health sessions and dedicated WhatsApp group, we aim to provide:

Peer-to-peer support

Safe space for sharing

Motivation and inspiration

Holistic wellbeing

The easy way to start

1.

Join our whatsapp community group

2.

Let us know you'll be joining

3.

Meet at our chosen location

4.

Take the step to self love

Peer-to-Peer Support Walk

Join Us for our Supportive Saturday Morning Walk!

"Pier to Pier"

Date & Time: 8:00 AM, every Saturday, 2024
Location: Clarence Pier
Route: Clarence Pier to South Parad Pier (5 km)
Duration: Approximately 1 hour

Start your day with a refreshing morning walk while connecting with a supportive community. We will meet at the Clarence Pier and embark on a scenic 5 km walk to the South Parad Pier. This journey, taking no longer than an hour, is more than just a physical exercise—it's a chance to open up, share, and support one another in a friendly and understanding environment.

Whether you're seeking encouragement, want to lend a listening ear, or enjoy the company of like-minded individuals, this walk is for you. Embrace the opportunity to be part of a compassionate group welcoming everyone.

Let’s walk, talk, and support each other. Together, we can create a strong community of peers who understand and uplift one another.

Monday Night Sessions:
Generative Man - Dr Maria Kempinska MBE

Welcome to our Monday The Generative Man Workshop—a safe space dedicated to men seeking purpose, connection, and growth. Co-facilitated by Dr. Maria Kempinska MBE, a respected figure in mental health and wellbeing, and Alfie Ruffell, founder of Rio-Vitalise and mental health advocate, this workshop is designed to empower men to rediscover their sense of self and meaning in today’s world.

In our sessions, we’ll explore topics that are often challenging yet crucial for men: from finding purpose and meaning, to understanding the complexities of masculinity, to confronting generational trauma. Together, we’ll discuss how to be both compassionate and strong, and how to build a life where you feel competent, resilient, and fulfilled.

Our unique approach combines guided group discussions, expert insights, and practical tools that can be applied to everyday life. We’ll dive into themes such as:

Navigating the challenges of modern society and societal expectations
The importance of purpose and the role it plays in your mental health
How to cultivate healthy relationships with yourself and others
Strategies for breaking free from destructive cycles and behaviors

Whether you're facing challenges related to identity, isolation, addiction, or simply seeking a path toward positive change, this workshop is here to support you. By the end of each session, we hope you’ll leave feeling more connected to yourself, empowered to take control of your life, and inspired to become the best version of yourself for your family, friends, and community.

This is more than just a discussion group—The Generative Man is a journey toward understanding, resilience, and self-discovery. We’re excited to walk this path with you and help you unlock your full potential.

Tuesday Night Sessions: The Physical Body with Simon Flannery

Welcome to our Tuesday night sessions, where we dive into the importance of physical health and wellness as a foundation for mental resilience. Led by Simon Flannery, a skilled practitioner dedicated to physical fitness and holistic wellbeing, these sessions are designed to help you connect with and strengthen your body, creating a positive impact on your overall mental health.

Our work on physical health goes beyond just exercise—it’s about building a deep connection with your body, understanding its needs, and empowering yourself with the knowledge and practices to care for it in meaningful ways. In each session, Simon will guide you through techniques and practices that emphasize the mind-body connection, exploring how physical wellness can serve as a powerful tool for managing stress, improving mental clarity, and fostering resilience.

Together, we’ll cover essential topics, including:

Movement and its impact on mental wellbeing
Techniques for grounding and reconnecting with your body
Simple, accessible routines that promote strength and flexibility
Tools to combat stress, improve sleep, and boost daily energy levels

These sessions offer a supportive space to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from each other. Whether you’re just starting your wellness journey or looking to deepen your understanding of physical health, Simon’s guidance will provide you with the skills to develop sustainable habits that support your body and mind.

By joining us on Tuesday nights, you’re taking a proactive step toward enhancing your wellbeing. We look forward to helping you build a healthier relationship with your body and equipping you with tools to thrive in all areas of life.

Thursday Meditation Sessions with Steve McLean

Join us every Thursday evening for a calming meditation session led by Steve McLean, affectionately known as “Macca.” These sessions are dedicated to helping you find stillness and clarity amidst the noise of everyday life. With Macca’s gentle guidance, we explore meditation as a tool for managing stress, enhancing mental wellbeing, and fostering inner peace.

Meditation can be a powerful way to cultivate resilience, reduce anxiety, and gain insight into our thoughts and emotions. Macca brings years of experience to each session, creating a warm, welcoming environment where you can unwind, reconnect, and recharge. Our practice focuses on accessible meditation techniques that anyone can follow, making it a perfect space whether you’re new to meditation or already have a regular practice.

In our sessions, we’ll explore:

Breathing techniques to calm and center the mind
Practices to cultivate mindfulness and reduce stress
Guided meditations that focus on relaxation, clarity, and self-compassion
Tips for integrating mindfulness into your daily life

Each session is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and grounded, providing you with tools to carry a sense of calm and balance into your week. Macca’s approach is down-to-earth and engaging, making meditation feel accessible, enjoyable, and impactful.

Whether you’re seeking to deepen your mindfulness practice or just looking for a peaceful space to relax and breathe, our Thursday night meditation with Macca offers a valuable respite. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing this journey towards inner peace together.