Don’t Worry, Be Happy: Top Tips to combat SAD
DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY
Life can be stressful but there are so many ways to unwind.
by Danni Murphy
With the darker nights setting in, this time of the year can fill some with the dread of SAD (Seasonal affective disorder) and just the additional stresses that come with the pending festive season can leave many folk feeling overwhelmed.
Stress is not only a mental load we carry, it can cause physical symptoms. Here we have listed some free ways you can try to reset and find some peace and most importantly protect your mental health…
Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of one of Cumbrias many forests, where you can practise mindfulness by focusing on the sights, sounds, and smells of the woodland environment. Take a slow, deliberate walk and engage fully with nature. Listen to the birds and keep a look out for those elusive Red Squirrels darting between the tree tops.
Git up t’fell
Autumn does something magical to our local fells. The orange and yellow hue that emanates from the seasonal change in our trees provides a thing of beauty and the best way to fully appreciate it is from a top a fell and there’s plenty to choose from. As long as you check the weather and prepare well an autumn fell walk can blow off all kinds of cobwebs.
Laking about
They don’t call us the Lake District for nothing. You’re never too far from a lake here in Cumbria and even if you don’t feel up to going for a trek, just sitting down, lake side with a butty and a flask of your favoured brew is sometimes just what you need to get your head straight. Give it a go.
Wildlife Watching
From rare bird species like Osprey to illusive mammals like Red Squirrels and otters there are all kinds of wildlife to be found around Cumbria. On the west coast we have the RSPB reserve where you can see a myriad of sea birds. Head to Keswick and look out for the Ospreys catching fish or head on over to Penrith and look out for the Red Squirrels. In Between these places there are all kinds of critters to catch a glimpse of. Autumn is rutting season for deer and you can often hear the haunting bark of stags when wandering through the Cumbrian countryside!
Forest and Woodland Picnics
Pack a picnic and enjoy a mindful meal somewhere gorgeous like Whinlatter forest, Longlands Lake or the Eskdale Valley. Take time to savour each bite, appreciate the flavours, and enjoy the peaceful setting.
Mindful Breathing Exercises
Find a quiet, scenic spot such as a hilltop or by a river there’s plenty of them to choose from. Practise mindful breathing exercises while absorbing the natural surroundings, which can help calm your mind and reduce stress.
Stargazing
Northern Lights, by Rob Nichol
We are extremely lucky here in Cumbria because one thing we have in abundance is wilderness, and that means no light pollution making a clear night awe inspiring. Not only are the stars something to take your breath away but if you’re lucky you might just catch a glimpse of the Aurora which is often visible in this part of the country! spend an evening looking up, it really is breathtaking. Observing the night sky can be a profoundly mindful and calming experience.
These activities can help you connect with the natural beauty of Cumbria while cultivating mindfulness and inner peace.
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