Fun “Move This Way” Activity Now Open at North Park

Here are the instructions and resources for each of the 8 stations:

Station 1: Dream Big and Keep Trying
Station 2: Taking Steps
Station 3: Walking and Talking
Station 4: Leaps and Bounds
Station 5: Staying Balanced
Station 6: Lead and Follow
Station 7: Coping Skills
Station 8: Spill the Beans

“Move This Way provides a creative opportunity for people of all ages to be active, talk, think and learn about topics related to their physical, mental and social well-being,” explained Jen Maurer, Heart of New Ulm coordinator. “We encourage people to grab a friend or family member and stop by the park anytime during daylight hours for some fun!”

Through a total of eight different stations, people are encouraged to follow the prompts on a sign posted by each station to engage in an activity illustrated on the sidewalk, such as stepping, jumping, breathing, or following a line. After doing the activity, people can use the questions on the sign to spark discussion. The walk aims to educate the community about mental health topics such as trauma and anxiety and guide them to local tools and resources available on HONU’s website.

The idea for Move This Way came about in 2023 after the Heart of New Ulm’s Leadership Team reviewed county data and brainstormed ideas on how to educate the community on these tough topics in a fun environment. HONU volunteers with developed the activities for each station, which were then brought to life on the North Park sidewalks by Kara Carlson. Carlson became known as the “Chalk Lady” of New Ulm for drawing uplifting art on her sidewalk during the COVID pandemic. She has been involved in creative work and art projects since the ’90s when she graduated as an art major from St. Cloud State University.

Move This Way will be available at North Park as long as the weather permits the paint to last.