Our world’s first mindfulness trains on DLR
Ahead of World Mental Health Day 2021 - Sunday 10th October, KeolisAmey Docklands (KAD) operators of Docklands Light Railway (DLR) and Youmanity announce the deployment of the world’s first ’mindfulness’ passenger trains to support passenger wellbeing and mental health.
This ambitious project is supported by Brain Recharge - a self-guided meditation app developed for use on trains and in DLR designated relaxation areas located in Canary Wharf, Tower Gateway, and Woolwich Arsenal DLR stations.
Commuting to or from work can be one of the most stressful times of the day, particularly following a year of individuals working remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Together KAD, DLR and Youmanity recognised that reentering the world of commuting can be nerve-wracking and anxiety inducing and created ‘The ‘Inner Journey’ project to welcome back passengers, offering them quiet spaces to enable them to experience the restorative benefits of mindfulness and meditation.
“Stress and anxiety can become a barrier to travel and independence. Following the disruption experienced during lockdowns, promoting mental health is paramount. Our ‘Inner Journey’ trains and kiosks aim to encourage our passengers to take time to relax and enjoy their commute.” Head of Customer Experience, William Layton.
Twelve modified carriages, drawing on nature inspired scenes of mountains, forests, oceans, and the countryside will pull up at stations serving the entire DLR network. Commuters can download the complimentary Brain Recharge app to access meditation tracks offering a full immersion into nature. Passengers will then be able to (re)connect to themselves and enjoy a moment of calm and restoration whilst on their journey.
"When overwhelmed and stressed, it can feel like there is nothing that can help you. The Inner Journey initiative is a great way of reminding Londoners that even a small pause, some breathing space, can start the journey to feeling calmer and more resilient. It is also an innovative way for how we can help encourage each other to talk and act more when it comes to mental health and wellbeing. As we emerge from the coronavirus crisis, this has never been more important.” Thrive LDN director, Dan Barrett.
“We often forget to pause in our hectic daily routine. Time spent commuting can be time spent on our own inner journey, providing the perfect window to pause, reflect and be aware of ourselves and the space around us.” said Marketing." Director at Youmanity, Alessia Affinita.
More information on the Inner Journey, click here
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