More than 1600 people across New Zealand are already pledging to take charge of their wellbeing and fundraise for a better mental health system by participating in Mindfulness Month.

Mindfulness Month, launched this August by the Mental Health Foundation in partnership with The Kindness Institute, is an initiative that encourages participants to prioritise a mindful moment during each day of August while raising money for the Mental Health Foundation.

There are a variety of tools on offer to support participants; daily guided mindfulness podcasts by Kristina Cavit, a mindfulness journal based on the month done concept by Stephen McCarthy and daily mindfulness activities to weave into everyday life from Pause Breathe Smile.

Mindfulness has been linked to a reduction in anxiety and stress, a boost in mood, and enhanced relationships, sleep and general wellbeing.

Founder of The Kindness Institute and mindfulness coach, Kristina Cavit, hopes participants will find more calm and clarity in their lives through taking a mindful moment each day.

'This campaign is for everyone, even those who think mindfulness is nonsense – we have designed this for you,” says Kristina.

'There is a variety of tools so everyone can choose how they want to have a mindful moment each day. It's about doing something good for yourself and your wellbeing and doing something good for others by fundraising for mental health.

'Working with the Mental Health Foundation on this shared kaupapa makes so much sense and I have loved every moment of it.”

The money raised by participants in Mindfulness Month goes towards supporting the work of the Mental Health Foundation to promote mental wellbeing and fund policy and advocacy work to transform the mental health system, engage with tāngata whaiora (people with lived experience of mental distress) and advocate for systemic change to improve social, economic and cultural determinants of mental health and wellbeing.

'It's awesome to see so many people take up the challenge so far and I am personally looking forward to being more mindful in August and supporting the incredible mahi of our policy and advocacy team, who are challenging us all to do better for the mental health of all across Aotearoa,” says Mental Health Foundation's fundraising manager Chris Taylor.

Chief executive Shaun Robinson believes mindfulness is a powerful tool in managing his wellbeing.

'Taking a mindful approach to living has been really important for me in terms of managing my bipolar disorder, and helping me to stay well,” says Shaun.

He's excited to see how Mindfulness Month will support the Foundation's goal of helping to transform the mental health system into one that is equitable, effective and empowers communities and individuals.

'The money raised through Mindfulness Month will really help to support us to be the guide dog and the watchdog for the creation of a world-class mental health system in New Zealand.”

To register for the challenge and receive the free journal, visit www.mindfulnessmonth.co.nz