Zenaa Retreats
Discover Zenaa Retreats, a welcoming, fad-free approach to yoga and wellness retreats in the UK and abroad. Designed for real life, these nourishing escapes blend movement, rest, great food and genuine connection. Perfect for beginners, solo travellers and the yoga curious.
Perfect For
Zenaa Retreats are for the "yoga curious" including regulars, dabblers, those who prefer the back row, and complete beginners. It is designed for the "schedule-seeking, choice-conscious" crowd who value a balance of activity and downtime. Solo travellers are especially welcome and make up a large part of the community.
Why You’ll Love It
We all need a space to pause, breathe, and reconnect. In a world of high expectations, Zenaa provides a judgment-free environment to strip away the pressure and allow you to be present. It’s an opportunity to escape the daily grind, slow down through the "art of slow living," and find nourishment for the mind, body, and soul without the pressure of a detox or juice cleanse.
What Makes It Special
Zenaa stands out for its "fad-free," balanced approach to wellbeing. Unlike many retreats that focus on restriction, Zenaa celebrates food and connection. The focus is on handpicked serene venues and a non-judgmental atmosphere that welcomes all body types and abilities. It is a family-feel business (founder Katie’s mum even helps out!) that prioritises genuine connection over performance.
The If Lost Take
We’ve often written about how we can get lost in wellbeing itself and we’re very much on a mission to get you to the places that can help you find your way through it all. When we met Katie we felt like here was a retreat organiser who really understands our real-lives. The places where we get overwhelmed or stuck, burned out and disconnected. And her events aren’t about adding yet more pressure, but really meeting you where you are, with consideration and kindness too.
Founder’s Story | Katie Hodge
Founder Katie is a wellbeing advocate and planner whose passion for events and yoga creates the perfect blend for meticulously designed retreats. Her journey began ten years ago in Sydney, where she first turned to yoga to find calm for an anxious mind. What started as a personal practice evolved into a mission to bring like-minded people together to connect with nature and enjoy incredible food, the ultimate self-care experience.
After launching Katie J Yoga in 2020 she rebranded to Zenaa in 2024. Today, it is a thriving community where every detail is covered so guests feel entirely nourished and supported.
Founder’s Go-To Wellbeing Advice
“Prioritising sleep. When everything feels overwhelming or I've lost my way, coming back to a consistent and restful sleep routine is the foundation for mental clarity and emotional resilience.”
Some Practical Details
Zenaa offers luxury wellness and yoga retreats in the UK (including Devon, Bath, and the Cotswolds) and abroad (Italy, France, Portugal, and Sri Lanka). These include:
Varied Yoga: Dynamic Hatha sessions in the morning and gentle Yin or yoga nidra in the evenings.
Nourishment: Healthy, wholesome meals prepared by private chefs (always including dessert and sometimes a glass of wine).
Activities: Countryside walks, cold-water swims, creative workshops, and meditation.
Community: A warm, inclusive environment where guests often leave as close friends.
If you’re not able to attend in-person, don’t worry, there’s Zenaa Online which provides an online retreat experience. You can try out their free 7 day trial here.
Coming up:
Italy Retreat (July 2026) – A 6-night restorative escape
France Retreat (Sept/Oct 2026) – A 5-night wellness experience
Devon, UK (Oct 2026) – A weekend of nourishment and nature
Book a retreat using code IFLOST and get a special welcome gift.
IceBreakers
Part of our wellbeing guide for life, IceBreakers offers men a welcoming space to step into nature, share conversation and find connection through cold water and simple weekly rituals.
Perfect For
IceBreakers is for men of all ages and backgrounds. Some come because they’re struggling. Others come because they want more connection, more nature and a healthier rhythm to their week. You don’t need experience with cold water or wellbeing practices. You just need to show up.
Why You’ll Love It
IceBreakers is a men’s wellbeing community that meets outdoors each week for breathwork, cold water immersion and conversation. They gather in rivers, lakes and the sea to reconnect with nature, challenge themselves and support one another. It’s a simple ritual that helps men step out of their heads and back into the world.
IceBreakers isn’t about endurance. It’s about presence and connection.
What Makes It Special
Many men don’t have places where they can slow down, speak honestly or feel supported without pressure. Being outdoors, breathing together and stepping into cold water creates a powerful reset. It helps people reconnect with their bodies, their thoughts and the people around them, often leading to stronger friendships and a deeper sense of belonging.
IceBreakers isn’t a class or a programme. It’s a simple shared ritual: men meeting in nature, breathing together, stepping into cold water and supporting each other. There’s no pressure to perform, no hierarchy and no fixing, just people showing up side by side and meeting life’s challenges together.
The If Lost Take
We’ve seen first-hand what a difference an early Sunday start can make. There’s something about standing waist-deep in a river, sharing a simple “hi, how are you?” that cuts through the noise of the week.
It can become a kind of reset. A chance to let go of what’s been building, even if just for a moment. And to notice, without needing to say much, that other men are carrying things too, moving through life with their own hopes and concerns.
Turning up for the first time might feel like a big step. But Icebreakers is a genuinely welcoming group. And somehow, with each Sunday, it gets a little easier to answer the alarm, grab your dry robe, and head out the door.
You come back with flushed cheeks, and often feeling a little lighter than when you left.
Founders Story | Co-founded by Tim Bowles, Arron Collins-Thomas and Jack Horner
IceBreakers began when two friends lost people close to them to suicide and realised how few spaces existed where men could talk honestly about how they were feeling.
They hosted a small retreat and discovered that the most powerful moments came from stepping into cold water together. That shared challenge created openness, connection and real conversation.
From there, weekly gatherings began and the community grew.
Founder’s Go-To Wellbeing Advice
“Step outside.
Move your body, breathe slowly and spend time in nature, even if it’s just a short walk.
And if you can, share that moment with someone else. A conversation and fresh air can shift more than you think.”
Some Practical Details
IceBreakers core offering is a weekly outdoor gathering, usually on Sunday mornings. Each session includes breathwork, movement, optional cold water immersion and time for conversation. Some chapters also host fire circles, walks, saunas and other events that deepen connection and community.
You don’t have to be brave or “good at cold water”. Some men dip for a few seconds. Some stay waist-deep. Some just come along for the conversation.
They also organise walks, camps, saunas and get togethers beyond the cold water.
Most of what they do happens outdoors in person. However they do share stories, guidance and inspiration in their WhatsApp community, and new chapters are launching across the UK so more men can find a group near them.
They also host occasional camps and events that people can travel to.
Coming up
Alongside their weekly Sunday gatherings across the UK, IceBreakers is hosting a Spring Camp from the 24th - 26th April, 2026.
It’s a few days in nature where men step away from the noise of everyday life and reconnect through cold water, movement, fire circles and honest conversation. Think of it as a deeper version of the weekly IceBreakers experience.
A special If Lost bonus
IceBreakers are offering 10% off their upcoming Spring Camp to If Lost readers, just use code LOST10 at checkout. Details of the Spring Camp can be found here.
Finding Winter Light: How Nature-Connectedness Boosts Wellbeing When Days Are Short
Spending time in nature — even short daily walks — can ease winter blues, lift mood, and support wellbeing. Here’s why nature-connectedness matters most in darker months.
Winter can feel like a long exhale — darker mornings, heavier coats, and that tug to stay inside. Yet stepping outdoors might be one of the gentlest ways to support yourself right now.
A few winters ago, I decided to make a small change: go outside every day, even if it was grey, damp, or uninspiring. Not hikes, not adventures. Just a walk — 10, maybe 30 minutes — in whatever patch of nature I could find: a park, a bridle path, a path by my kid’s school. I looked for small things — the biting crunch of frost, birds on bare branches, the way the sky changes colour even behind a cloud.
What started as an experiment turned into something else. My mood lifted. My head felt clearer. Even on days when I didn’t want to leave the house, coming back felt like I’d plugged myself into a quiet energy source.
It’s not just a feeling. Research backs this up. Studies show that time spent outdoors — especially in green or natural spaces — reduces stress, supports immune function, and improves mood.
Even brief “nature doses” (about 20–30 minutes) have measurable benefits, from lowering cortisol to easing anxiety. And in winter, when daylight is scarce and we spend more time inside, that effect matters even more.
Light matters: Outdoor daylight — even on cloudy days — is much stronger than indoor light, helping regulate mood and sleep.
Movement matters: Gentle walking outdoors supports mental health and resilience.
Nature matters: Contact with trees, water, birdsong, and sky connects us to something larger and steadies our nervous system.
So if winter sometimes feels like wading through fog, try weaving in small nature rituals:
A quick daily walk where you can see the sky.
Lunch by a window with outdoor views.
Pausing to notice tiny seasonal details — buds, frost patterns, migrating birds.
It doesn’t have to be perfect weather or a big adventure; just a moment to step outside.
Want help making small, feel-good changes that stick? Explore our wellbeing remedies including gentle ways to bring more light and balance into winter.
And if you suspect that nature might be your preferred way to reconnect with yourself and the world around you, explore our guide for life.
Burmieston Farm and Steading
An off-grid, award-winning eco steading near the Scottish Highlands. Burmieston offers screen-free stays, sauna, escape barn, retreats, local food and space to reconnect with nature and each other.
Perfect For
Burmieston is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to come together in the middle of rural Scotland.
Why You’ll Love It
Burmieston Steading is a group accommodation space on the edge of the Scottish Highlands where nature is close, the air and water are crystal clean, and there is space to be….just be.
They offer 5 ensuite bedrooms sleeping 12-13 people with a spacious kitchen and great sitting room with a library wall and a projector. Co-owner Keesje Crawford-Avis can even cook for you! They have an Escape Barn, a sauna and rural Scotland is all around. They also sell their own lamb, wool and skins as well as jams and chutneys made from orchard produce.
What Makes It Special
They don’t have WiFi or TVs, so you can really get away from screens here if you choose to. Nature and climate change are at the core of their business. The building was renovated with many eco features (they even won the Historic Scotland RIBA award for climate change in 2018) and they run Burmieston conscious that they are part of an ecosystem. Keesje can entertain you for hours if you want to know more!
The If Lost Take
So many people live in cities and rarely have the opportunity to let their senses become alive again. It’s quiet here. It’s dark at night. The weather is always present and the beds are super comfy. Burmieston gives you the space to remember there is no wall between you and the natural world (without camping), and an opportunity to spend time with your loved ones and/or the fun ones and space to be on your own. In a moment that we are longing to be together, Burmieston is all about in-person reality.
Founders Story
Keesje and Olly Crawford-Avis: “We found Burmieston in the Guardian’s ‘Wreck of the Week’ column around 2015 and wanted to start farming on a very small scale. (Olly and I met at agricultural college a long time ago). We also wanted to share this amazing spot and we opened the renovated Steading in 2017, the weekend our second son was due. It’s a truly family affair — he’s our chief customer relations officer in charge of all things on the trampoline. We are passionate about our surroundings, about community and about food. Burmieston is the physical reality of that passion.”
Founder’s Go-To Wellbeing Advice
“Take a walk on a well worn path and look for things you have never noticed before. A plant you have always walked past, a bird song you have never noticed before. And then breathe.”
Some Practical Details
They are dog friendly but do have chickens, geese, ducks and sheep around so please keep your dog well controlled. They have their own dogs too.
The team also work with a number of wellness businesses to host their events, from meetings to retreats to catering. They focus on self catering groups at weekends and B&B for singles and couples during the week.
Coming up
They have a few weekend retreats coming up: willow basket making, a weekend of wet felting with yoga and sauna, and a weekend of drawing with a brilliant illustrator. They also have the next in their series of seasonal yoga and mindfulness day retreats. New adventures are being planned all the time. More info and book can be found here.
A special If Lost bonus
Anyone who finds them here will receive a guided walk around the smallholding. You can choose either a night walk with Keesje or an introduction to our farming set up with Olly.
When the Garden Teaches You How to Grow
How I learned that tending a garden is like attending to my emotional wellbeing. Discover why gardening might just be the gentlest teacher of all and the life lessons it might hold for you.
We often talk about personal growth like it’s something we can hack or schedule: an efficient morning routine here, a life-affirming listicle there. But growth—real, emotional, soul-deep growth—doesn’t always work like that.
What if the better metaphor isn’t a staircase going ever upwards… but a garden?
Because while we search for clarity, balance, or simply a day that feels like “enough,” we forget that the slow, subtle tending we do matters too. And nowhere has that been more apparent to me than in my garden.
When I first began gardening, I thought I was there to grow flowers. I didn’t realise I’d be unearthing something else entirely.
The spinach bolting too soon mirrored parts of myself I’d neglected. The alliums blooming after months of dark reminded me that beauty often requires quiet persistence. And the mess? That was its own kind of magic.
My garden began teaching me the lessons more often held in books on self-improvement
That manifesting without doing is like planting without watering.
That completion is hard—not because we can’t finish things, but because we forget to savour when we do.
That wildness isn’t chaos—it’s aliveness.
That rhythms matter, and sometimes staying still is part of tending too.
Most surprisingly, I learned that I didn’t have to get everything right. Not in the garden. And not in myself.
Sue Stuart-Smith wrote, “The mind needs to be gardened too.” And once I read it, I couldn’t stop thinking about how true that is.
Gardening asks us to:
Observe without rushing.
Accept mistakes without shame.
Work with the seasons, not against them.
Let go of perfect outcomes.
And return, again and again, to the same patch of ground.
In other words—it’s the same practice that wellbeing demands of us.
You don’t need to own a garden to live this way. But you do need to notice what’s already growing.
If the garden has taught me anything, it’s this:
There will always be weeds. You are not failing because things still need clearing.
Rest counts. Sitting in your garden is still tending to it.
Growth doesn’t announce itself. Often it’s quiet, a cucumber hidden behind a leaf, a shift in mindset you barely notice.
You don’t need to be the expert. Just the one who shows up.
This is the version of wellbeing I believe in: imperfect, seasonal, and rooted in presence rather than performance.
So tell me—what’s growing for you right now?
What do you notice when you look at your days not as tasks to complete but as something to tend?
Let’s start a new kind of growth together: slower, kinder, and more alive.
If this resonated with you, sign up for the newsletter for our take on personal growth (hint: we never call it personal growth outside of a gardening metaphor). Or explore our wellbeing courses where we start, not with goals, but with grounding.
We can cultivate a different kind of wellbeing together: one that feels messy, but real, and offers its own kind of beauty..
Image: made with Freepik
Vallis Farm
Seek out this farm in Somerset centered on learning and creativity, exchanging skills and ideas, while connecting you with the healing properties of nature. It’s truly a place to grow.
Go here if
You are looking for a beautiful space to share and swap skills, learn, grow and be in nature.
What is it?
Vallis Farm is a home for learning and creativity, for exchanging skills and ideas, a place to grow.
Why you need it
Nature has healing properties and this farm offers something special. Not only is the landscape stunning, the house warm and inviting but the people are welcoming and friendly.
What they offer
A range of workshops, supper clubs, weekly events such as yoga and pilates. They also encourage people to volunteer on the land to learn about their approach to sustainable gardening while being in the most healing of environments - the great outdoors!
What makes it different
Vallis Farm is a rather special place. The old Georgian farmhouse is warm and beautifully decorated with lots of spaces available to use depending on your needs.
The outside is even more stunning, just under 10 acres of rolling hills and woodland, a market garden using no-dig methods to grow local produce, a beautiful kitchen garden and roundhouse as well as shepherd’s huts that you can stay in. It's a truly restorative place to spend time.
What else do you need to know
You can book a range of spaces — whether that’s rooms in the house or the whole farm site — by the hour, for a half day or a full day, depending on your needs and budget.
Vallis Farm also welcomes people to pop up to have a look around. There is always someone there to say hello and show you this amazing place.
In their own words
Vallis Farm is led by an evolving collective of highly experienced craftspeople, compassionate educators and committed stewards of the land.
“We started Vallis Farm as a place to provide affordable spaces to local people. We have areas that have permanent tenants who are artisan craftspeople in their own right. We want people to know they will always be welcome to come and share their skills and knowledge with others. We truly are a place to grow and learn.”
Where inspires them
“It's proven time and again that nature has huge restorative effects. Not just on our mood but also on our memory, cognition and executive functions. We believe that being outside repairs the soul. If the weather is not our friend, our beautiful house has green views from every window which are also proven to help repair and restore our mental health. Having a place to just "be" is the most inspiring thing for us.”
Glove Factory Studios
Glove Factory Studios in Bradford on Avon is a beautifully designed coworking space set in a restored Victorian glove factory. Home to a thriving community of creatives, freelancers, and entrepreneurs, it offers inspiring workspaces, events, and even a wild swimming pond.
Perfect For
Freelancers, creatives, and entrepreneurs who want a unique workspace—somewhere that encourages focus, connection, and maybe even a mid-morning swim.
Why You’ll Love It
Tucked away in the Wiltshire countryside, Glove Factory Studios is far more than a workspace—it’s a hub for creativity, collaboration, and connection. Set in a beautifully restored Victorian glove factory, it’s home to independent businesses, freelancers, and creatives who want more than just an office—they want a space that inspires ideas, fosters community, and embraces work-life balance in the best way possible.
With light-filled studios, a rural setting, and a café that feels like a creative meeting ground, this is a workspace designed for people who think differently, work independently, but love being part of something bigger.
What Makes It Special
An inspiring setting – A heritage industrial building meets modern design, creating a workspace that feels both professional and creative.
A built-in creative community – More than just a place to work, it’s a network of like-minded people, with regular talks, events, and collaboration opportunities.
Surrounded by nature – With open countryside, walking trails, and even wild swimming nearby, this is a space that understands the balance between productivity and wellbeing.
The Story Behind It
Glove Factory Studios was founded with the belief that where you work should inspire you, not drain you. Over the years, it’s evolved into a thriving community of designers, writers, makers, and entrepreneurs, all drawn to its unique blend of rural calm and creative energy. From its history as a glove-making factory to its reinvention as a workspace for modern independents, its story is one of transformation, creativity, and new possibilities.
Something Else We Love
Their onsite wild swimming club, the Glove Dippers—yes, really. With a natural swimming pond, members can take a dip before, after, or even between meetings. It’s the kind of workplace perk you don’t know you need until you try it.
We also love it for coworking, dropping in when working from home gets a little lonely. Oh and the gorgeous cafe on site, Wild Herb at the Field Kitchen is the perfect any-time of day pick me up.
The If Lost Take
We love Glove Factory Studios because it proves that work doesn’t have to happen in dull offices or overrun cafés. It’s a space that prioritizes both creativity and wellbeing, offering a place where people can build businesses, spark ideas, and create their own version of that illusive work-life balance.
Some Practical Details
Holt, Bradford on Avon, UK
Sherlock & Pages
Sherlock & Pages in Frome is an independent bookshop specializing in nature writing, conservation, and environmental sustainability. It serves as a magical (and a little mischievous) hub for those passionate about reconnecting with the natural world.
Perfect For
Anyone seeking books that inspire a deeper connection with nature, those interested in locating meaning in their lives, and anyone looking to support independent book shops.
Why You’ll Love It
Nestled in the heart of Frome, Sherlock & Pages is a tiny bookshop — of just 1500 titles — with a big ambition. Co-founder Luke Sherlock has said “My dream as a person is to have the most beautiful, soulful bookshop surrounded by stories and community.”
True to his promise, together with his partner Agathe Cavicchioli, he has created somewhere magical — and sometimes mischievous — that holds a carefully curated collection of books that mostly celebrate nature, but also bring in other areas such as conservation, folklore, history and pilgrimage.
This truly charming book shop invites you to embark on journeys — sometimes physical, sometimes of the mind and spirit, all while fostering a deep connection to the natural world.
What Makes It Special
Nature-Centered Collection – Specializing in books about nature, conservation, and environmental sustainability, Sherlock & Pages offers readers a chance to reconnect with some of the best writing about the natural world.
Community Reach – In a town that believes in maintaining its independent spirit, Sherlock & Pages foster a sense of community and shared values. They are always happy to recommend the latest titles or beloved reads when you stop by. But don’t worry if you’re not local, you can also check out their YouTube Channel
Personal Touch & Advocacy – The people behind it have created not just a platform for cherished reads, but also for the story of the joys and difficulties of running a bookshop. Making literal space in the world for the things we love can be extraordinarily hard and rewarding. Their campaigns, and honesty, around this have highlighted how important it is to support the independent spaces in our community because when we don’t, we lose them too.
The Story Behind It
Luke Sherlock and Agathe Cavicchioli, both with backgrounds in climate action and sustainability, founded Sherlock & Pages in October 2023. After experiencing an intense bout of climate anxiety, Luke sought to create a positive space for community building and discussion on conservation, including what’s past and what’s to come.
Their shared passion for nature and literature led them to establish a sanctuary where readers can explore themes of nature, conservation, and history, anything that helps us connect with the world around us in restorative ways.
The shop's tagline, "Long Live the Hedgerows," reflects its dedication to conservation and the natural world.
The If Lost Take
We love Sherlock & Pages because it’s more than just a bookshop—it’s a beacon for environmental consciousness and a kind of nature-led self-exploration. It’s clear focus feels refreshing, as it brings together stories that inspire action and reflection, encouraging us all to become stewards of the world around us, even if that means that we just start noticing it again.
Something Else We Love
Luke has also created an avid following on Instagram through his account @englishpilgrim for his pilgrimages to churches, and has written his own book on the subject: Forgotten Church: Exploring England’s Hidden Treasures.
Some Practical Details
Frome, Somerset, UK
P.S.
If you visit, make sure to pop next door to independent shop Seed and the gorgeous florist Bramble & Wild.
42 Acres
Explore 42 Acres, a 173-acre regenerative estate and nature reserve in Somerset offering transformative retreats and nature-based experiences. Swim in the lake, meditate in the treehouse, or nourish yourself with farm-to-table food grown on-site.
Go here if: You’re looking to get into nature, reawaken your deep-rooted instincts and nourish yourself.
What is it: Set over 173 acres of wild land and ancient forest, 42 Acres is a regenerative estate and nature reserve where you can reconnect with nature, yourself and others.
Explore the self-guided and led retreats, often in partnership with world-renowned practitioners and aligned with nature, that encourage you to dream, grow, learn and rest. Stay in a restored 13th-century former hermitage, converted barge or under the stars in a luxury bell tent. Swim in the lake, meditate in the treehouse, sauna in the woods and nourish yourself with food grown on the land.
Why you need it: 42 Acres was first conceived in 2015 by siblings Lara and Seth Tabatznik as a home for personal, social and environmental change after having been deeply inspired by some powerful personal retreats and workshops in their own lives. Both Seth and Lara are strong advocates that outer change in the world starts with the self, or to quote Gandhi: “Be the change that you wish to see in the world”.
What they offer: At its core, 42 Acres invites people to reconnect with nature, self and others but has now grown to offer so much more including a range of wellbeing and nature-based experiences and events, a regenerative farm and an abundant nature reserve.
What makes it different: Living within an ancient forest, host to a variety of wild meadows and vast open fields and the source of four different rivers within a stone’s throw, this is a place for planting your dreams.
What you need to know: You can visit 42 Acres in several ways — as a guest on a day experience, workshop or energy exchange or by visiting them on retreat. All booked guests are free to roam the estate, swim in the lake and explore. Food, accommodation and experiences need to be pre-booked on their website.
In their own words:
“Our vision is to grow and consume in a way that serves the health of people and the planet. Our market gardens and regenerative farm use and permaculture and biodynamic-inspired principles. We grow, forage and wild-tend to create wholesome, nutrient-dense food. As we cultivate and restore health in our earth, we restore the worlds within ourselves.
We use our deepest intuition, ancient tools and shared knowledge to establish regenerative spaces, curate transformational experiences, and foster opportunities to learn, heal and grow.”
42 Acres is a 173 -acre retreat centre, regenerative estate and nature reserve in Witham Friary, just outside of Frome, Somerset
All images courtesy of 42 Acres.
Reconnect with Nature: Simple Ways to Boost Mental Wellbeing
When was the last time you felt truly connected—to yourself, to the world around you? It turns out, the quickest path to reconnection may be as close as the tree outside your window.
In a world that moves fast, it’s easy to feel out of sync—with ourselves, our surroundings, even our emotions. But there’s a simple, powerful way to start reconnecting today, and it doesn’t require special gear, a trip to a national park, or hours of free time. It starts with nature—right outside your door.
How I Reconnected Without Leaving My Neighborhood
When I first realized how disconnected I felt, I thought the solution needed to be a grand adventure—maybe camping in the wild or a mountain hike. But with work, family, and life all pulling at me, those ideas felt impossible.
Instead, I started small. I began noticing the little things: the tree I passed every morning on my walk, the way the sunset painted the sky as I washed the dishes, the flowers peeking through cracks in the sidewalk. These weren’t dramatic moments, but they were enough to start feeling a little more connected—not just to nature, but to myself.
It turns out, nature doesn’t have to be a grand expedition. It can be as simple as sitting on a park bench, feeling the wind on your face, or watching birds from your window. And the benefits are real and measurable.
Studies show that just a few minutes of exposure to nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase feelings of wellbeing. You don’t need to be an “outdoorsy” person to access these benefits—you just need to start noticing.
Nature is Closer Than You Think: Tuning Into Your Surroundings
So, how can you start reconnecting? Begin by expanding what nature means to you. It’s not just national parks or forests; it’s your local park, your backyard, that tree outside your office, or even the view from your window.
Nature is everywhere, waiting to be part of your everyday life. And when you let it in, you’ll find yourself grounding more deeply in the present, feeling more balanced, and yes—more connected.
Instead of feeling overwhelmed and scattered, you could find peace in a simple morning walk, or clarity by taking a moment to watch the clouds drift by. These are small steps, but they make a big difference.
Reconnect and Revive: Bringing Nature into Your Daily Life
What if feeling connected didn’t require major life changes or extra hours in the day? What if it’s simply about learning how to see what’s already around you? By bringing nature into your everyday routine, you can start feeling more in tune with yourself, your surroundings, and your emotions—without the pressure of doing it “right” or “big.”
If this resonates, consider joining our upcoming workshop, Seasonal Shifts: Enhancing Your Wellbeing Inspired by Nature. In this 90-minute session, you’ll explore how the rhythms of nature can support your mental and emotional wellbeing—no hiking boots required. We’ll dive into simple, science-backed strategies that help you reconnect with the natural world, even in small, everyday ways.
Let’s rediscover the connection you’ve been missing. Book your spot in the workshop and start your journey toward feeling more grounded, balanced, and whole.
Where to stop on the way to Devon & Cornwall
Here's our curated list of the best places to stop en route to Devon or Cornwall.
Every year around this time we google the same thing: “Where to stop on the way to Devon / Cornwall.”
What we’re looking for is somewhere independent and interesting, that isn’t too far from the main road (and doesn’t take us down more tiny roads). We need somewhere the kids can run and we can refuel. And we’re hoping for a feel-good stop that makes the journey that much easier (and memorable in a positive way).
Like a National Trust that feels magical and like we’re in a movie. Or an incredible bakery that makes the best sourdough (we would probably drive anywhere for a bakery). Or a cute countryside pub with a beer garden and great food.
Here’s our round-up of the best places that we’ve found to stop on the way to Devon or Cornwall. Hopefully, these will help you feel like your holiday has already started or hasn’t yet ended.
Wiltshire
Stourhead
Stourhead
The Boot Inn
The Boot Inn
This is a great antidote to the Stonehenge traffic. Dating back to the 17th century, this charming pub has a gorgeous beer garden to stretch legs and classic country pub fare made from locally sourced ingredients if car snacks aren’t cutting it.
Stourhead (National Trust)
One of the UK’s most enchanting places Stourhead is just off the A303. Though it’s not a quick stop, the stunning 18th-century landscape garden complete with classical temples, tranquil lakes, and vibrant floral displays, is a welcome respite from a long car journey. You’ll need to be a member or buy a day pass to wander the grounds and take in the estate's historic Palladian mansion, but you can also take a route beyond the perimeter that goes through picturesque woodlands. Another find Alfred’s Tower is worth a look too but its more of an effort to get to (think more narrow lanes). You can eat in the cafe, The Spread Eagle pub in the village or picnic on the lawn with gorgeous views.
Somerset
Teals
Montacute House
Jordan’s Courtyard
Fleet Air Museum
We often get stuck in traffic on the A303 right around here, so if you’re looking to replace your frustration with some wonder divert to the Fleet Air Museum. Aviation history comes to life with an impressive collection of over 100 aircraft. Our kids particularly love the interactive exhibits and flight simulators that offer a hands-on experience (though these would appeal to all ages). There are more than enough stories of naval aviation to keep you interested (including the largest collection of Royal Navy aircraft in Europe.) Not a quick stop, but a fascinating one, that will either start or keep going those holiday vibes.
Teals
An easy stop directly off the A303, Teal’s has become one of our go-to places for taking a quick break. Offering farm-fresh groceries, locally sourced treats, and artisan goods you can shop for your picnic or that first night meal. Or stay a while in the cafe (which has a lovely outdoor seating area). You can also stretch your legs by wandering some of the countryside pathways (Teals is based on one of Somerset’s famed ley lines).
Lytes Cary Manor
Another charming National Trust property, step back in time at Lytes Cary Manor. Explore the medieval manor house, stroll through beautiful Arts and Crafts inspired gardens, and treat yourself to the tearoom. For the kids, there’s a Natural Play Area. If you need a longer stay, you can also book an overnight here.
Montacute House
Situated in a gorgeous village (the kind you expect the family of the lead from a rom-com to live) Montacute House is a gorgeous Elizabethan mansion. Wander through the grand house, admire the impressive collection of portraits, and relax in the stunning gardens. Owned by the National Trust, Montacute offers a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
The Kitchen at Jordans Courtyard
Offering a menu of fresh, locally sourced dishes in a relaxing setting, The Kitchen at Jordan’s Courtyard is a great food stop. Sit inside the light-filled cafe or on the terrace. Perfect for travelers and food enthusiasts alike. While here also check out The Pastry Bench bakery and wellness and yoga options (maybe one will coincide with your journey).
The Flintock Inn
Nestled on the Somerset/ Devon border and just off the A303, the Flintlock Inn is a charming countryside pub offering hearty meals and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy locally sourced dishes, real ales, and the kid-friendly pub garden.
Devon
Buckfast Butterfly Farm
Dartington Estate
Hog and Hedge
Darts Farm
Darts Farm has over the past 50 years evolved from a farm shop to an award-winning lifestyle and dining destination. Shop the food hall full of fresh, local produce and artisan food (we particularly like the ice cream and baked goods). The Farm Table has been named one of “Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants’ in 2024. There’s even Vineyard Tours and a Maize Maze. Set within the beautiful Devon countryside, there are also some easy walks. Just check the traffic before turning off your main route as it can get busy around here.
Castle Drogo
While not the quickest detour, the majestic Castle Drogo (run by the National Trust), perched above the Teign Gorge, will make your journey memorable. The last castle to be built in England — in the twentieth century by renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens — is captivating. The walks up to it and the views around it are well worth a visit. If you need a longer stop, you can also take scenic walks in the surrounding area.
Hog & Hedge
Not your usual service station, Hog and Hedge (an easy find just off the A30) offers fresh, locally sourced food and specialty hand-roasted coffee. A place with a mission, Hog and Hedge promote low food miles, supports small suppliers and uses packaging made from plants and not plastic. Enjoy a homely atmosphere while helping people and the planet.
Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary and Buckfast Butterfly Farm
We don’t know quite why otters and butterflies go so well together but they do. Wandering through the butterfly house can feel magical as they fly around you; while there is something so fun about watching the otters outside get playful. Try to time your stop for one of the otter feedings.
Dartington Estate
We’re never quite sure what we’ll find at Dartington Estate. On our last visit, we stumbled on a summer literary festival. Dartington offers a perfect blend of culture, nature and relaxation. Check out the packed calendar of events, eat at The Green Cafe, or shop at The Cider Press Center. There’s even a Barn Cinema. Our kids also love to run around here and spend time on the nature-inspired playground. There are also many options to stay over — from glamping to cabins — if you need a longer break.
Almond Thief, Dartington
One of our favourite bakeries is located in an unassuming setting, tucked away on an industrial estate. Savour artisanal bread, pastries, and fresh coffee in a welcoming, if stripped back, setting. A great spot to refuel and indulge in some of the tastiest baked goods around.
Cornwall
Coombeshead Farm
Tre Pol & Pen
Da Bara Bakery
Coombeshead Farm
This takes a little more to seek out: there are some twisty lanes and you’ll need to double-check opening times, but Coombeshead Farm feels like an idyllic retreat before continuing your journey. A charming guesthouse, bakery, and working farm nestled in Cornwall's serene countryside, you’ll find farmhouse comforts, freshly baked goods, and the beauty of 66 acres of meadows and woodlands. You can also stay overnight on the farm with dinner, bed and breakfast provided.
Tre Pol & Pen
An award-winning farm shop and restaurant in the Tamar Valley, we loved the striking design, charming countryside setting, and indoors/ outdoors feel of Tre Pol & Pen. The cafe and farm shop offer fresh Cornish produce, delicious meals, and unique gifts, plus there’s room and a playground for the kids to run around. It’s a slightly longer detour but down pretty straightforward roads.
Da Bara Bakery
Where to stop can be all about timing. How soon or late in the journey do you make a detour? Sometimes we arrive here just as we’re leaving Cornwall and though it can feel early in our road trip we’re drawn by the cinnamon rolls and wholewheat molasses. Offering freshly baked goods that showcase local flavors and expert craftsmanship to eat in or takeaway, this is an easy comfort stop just off the main route.
Places open and close, they change hands or menus. We once drove 30 minutes out of the way to find a highly recommended coffee grindery and cafe closed (though the next-door winery wasn’t so that was a bonus).
If you’re planning to stop at one of these places check directly with them on their socials or website for the latest details.
Let us know where you would add. Reach out to us here or on socials. Or if you run a place you’d like us to feature in our guidebook, get in touch too. We’d love to hear from you.
Browse our online guidebook for more people-positive places.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Discover the Transformative Power of Nature
Embrace nature's healing power and find clarity amidst the chaos.
Are you overwhelmed by the demands of modern life? We often turn to productivity hacks and scheduling apps to help us manage everything better. But we can also turn to something else, the transformative power of nature to bring calm and clarity to our minds and souls.
The overwhelm of modern life: Navigating stress and finding balance
Life can be overwhelming, with constant stressors and the ever-present demands of work, family, and social obligations. Feeling lost and out of balance can start to feel like a daily struggle. The days can often feel like a whirlwind of activities and tasks, leaving little time for relaxation and self-care. This constant state of busyness can lead to exhaustion and a deep sense of disconnection. The pressures of modern living can take a significant toll on our mental health too, leading to anxiety and depression.
The good news is that nature offers a powerful antidote to the chaos of modern life. Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. It's a simple yet effective way to find calm and reconnect with yourself.
Embracing nature: Daily practices for calm and clarity
Here are some ways to incorporate the healing power of nature into your life:
1. Take Daily Walks:
Incorporate a daily walk into your routine, whether it's a stroll through a local park or a hike in the woods. Walking in nature helps clear your mind and reduces stress.
2. Create a Nature Corner:
If you can't get outside, bring nature indoors. Create a small nature corner in your home with plants, natural light, and soothing elements like water fountains or nature sounds.
3. Plan Nature Getaways:
Make time for regular getaways to natural settings. Whether it's a weekend camping trip or a visit to the beach, these breaks can rejuvenate your mind and body.
4. Practice Mindful Observation:
Spend time mindfully observing the natural world around you. Notice the colors, shapes, and sounds of nature, and let yourself be fully present in the moment.
5. Engage in Outdoor Activities:
Explore outdoor activities that bring you joy, such as gardening, birdwatching, or star gazing. These activities can deepen your connection to nature and provide a sense of peace.
Finding calm in chaos: Nature's path to mental clarity
By embracing nature, you can find a sense of calm and clarity that helps you navigate the challenges of everyday life. The beauty and tranquility of the natural world offer a powerful way to reconnect with yourself and find balance.
Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, get into nature. It might help you find clarity and feel lighter.
Find your way through overwhelm with nature’s help
Ready to reduce stress and enhance your emotional wellness? Discover the positive impacts of nature with our course, 'Find Your Way.'
Learn practical strategies to connect with nature and improve your mental health. Enroll now and start your journey towards a more balanced and fulfilled life!
Discover your perfect summer camp | Our favourite UK wellbeing escapes
Explore our guide to UK wellbeing destinations that get you outdoors, help you connect with others, and have more fun. Discover the places we seek out to feel good during the summer months.
Are you looking for a different kind of summer escape? From magical gatherings in Wales to Californian surfing outside Bristol, explore our favourite summer destinations for seeking connection, fun, and the great outdoors. Explore our guide to find your perfect summer camp for both grown-ups and the rest of the family. There’s even one for the entrepreneurial-minded…
Fforest | Connect with the magic of gathering
Fforest defies simple categorization — it's not just a glamping site, nature retreat, or eco camp but a mix of all three. Conceived by London creatives Sian Tucker and James Lynch, Fforest is a beautifully crafted vision brought to life on 500 acres of Welsh countryside. Here, amidst geodesic domes, hill and garden shacs, crog lofts, a stone farmhouse, and Kata Cabins, luxury meets handmade charm.
Each choice of accommodation is thoughtfully furnished with craft furniture, Welsh woollen blankets, and delightful touches like wildflowers in enamel jugs. While at Fforest, indulge in a variety of unique local experiences. Savor a pizza night in their tented restaurant in Cardigan or a woodland supper at Hydref, where sustainability meets deliciousness. Explore ‘the bwythn’, a tiny pub serving its own IPA, or relax in a cedar barrel sauna.
Offering a low environmental footprint and high human value, Fforest is an enchanting haven for a slow-living summer.
The Little Retreat | The perfect feel-good summer escape
Nestled in the heart of Pembrokeshire, The Little Retreat offers the perfect glamping experience.
Imagine staying in a beautifully furnished, wood-furnace heated dome that blends luxury and nature seamlessly. Stargazing tents are also available that provide an unparalleled view of the night sky.
Unwind in your private Scandi hot tub, enjoy the cozy warmth of a fire pit, or explore the breathtaking Preseli Hills and nearby beaches.
Founded by Amber Rich, who also curates the renowned Big Retreat Festival, The Little Retreat similarly has sustainability at its core. It’s a space to unplug, reset, and embrace the tranquility of the outdoors.
The Good Life Society | Bringing summer camp home for everyone
This is the closest we’ve got to an American Summer Camp experience in the UK. But one where you get to go with your kids.
Summer Camp is a perfect blend of wellness, creativity, and adventure that will leave you refreshed and inspired. On offer are campfire cooking sessions, paddle boarding, and wild swimming — all set against the backdrop of a picturesque castle estate in North Wales.
Seek out the workshops, events and even DJ sessions by top chefs, authors, and makers. You decide how active you want to be. Whether you’re looking to untether from technology, find new passions, or simply enjoy quality time with your family, Summer Camp provides the warmest of welcomes.
The Camp at The Wave | A unique blend of adventure and relaxation
Ready for a summer escape that perfectly blends adventure and relaxation? Welcome to The Camp at The Wave, just outside of Bristol.
This unique destination offers an exhilarating mix of world-class surfing and luxurious glamping for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
Step out of a safari tent to the sound of (man-made) waves, knowing that a day of surf awaits.
Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a complete beginner, The Wave offers tailored lessons for all skill levels and guaranteed waves. Plus, the campsite’s natural surroundings make it the ideal spot for unwinding after a day on the water.
Campwell | Awaken to the wild
Dreaming of a summer escape where you can reconnect with nature and yourself? Campwell is an enchanting retreat just outside Bath that offers both.
This off-grid haven invites you to unplug from the daily grind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the great outdoors while offering ways to listen to what you need again.
You’ll get to stay in a charming, eco-friendly cabin or bell tent, surrounded by either lush woodlands or a fifth-generation farm. During the day you can practice yoga under the trees, explore scenic trails, try paddle-boarding, or simply relax by the campfire with new friends. Campwell is on a mission to make the world a better place, by offering you the space to explore where you are (both here and in life).
The Happy Startup Summercamp | Where purpose goes to play
The Happy Startup Summercamp combines inspiration, fun, and meaningful connections
Held in the stunning Sussex countryside, this unique camp brings together entrepreneurs, creatives, and wellness enthusiasts for a weekend of life alteraing connection.
Book a cozy bell tent, start your day with yoga under the open sky, and then immerse yourself in inspiring talks in the different tents. Founded by Laurence McCahill and Carlos Saba, The Happy Startup Summer Camp is designed to spark joy, creativity, and a sense of community, all while helping you find balance in your life and work.
Also Check Out
Mill on the Brue
Mill on the Brue in Somerset offers outdoor activities like canoeing, archery, and yoga, all set in a stunning, eco-friendly environment. Perfect for either day activities or overnights for the kids: For more information, visit their website.
Kudhva in Cornwall
Stay in unique architectural hideouts nestled in wild landscapes, perfect for reconnecting with nature. Enjoy outdoor activities like wild swimming, foraging, and coastal hikes. Visit their website for more details.
Three Pools in Wales
Enjoy serene lakeside glamping, nature walks, and yoga sessions amidst stunning Welsh landscapes. Sit down to locally-sourced meals and unwind by the campfire with new friends. For more information, visit their website.
Where will you go this summer?
As places change, do check the websites for up-to-date information and availability.
If you have a favourite UK destination to add,, reach out to us here.
If you can’t get away this Summer, join us for our first (Stay-at-home) Wellcation!
Join our Summer Wellcation online course to explore how to stay connected to yourself while doing all the things for other people, nurture relationships when they are sometimes the last thing you can get to, and disconnect from tech when it’s the first thing you grab.
With engaging activities, quick and impactful lessons, and the flexibility to fit into your busy schedule, this course is designed to help you make the most of your summer, without melting down.
Simple ways nature can boost your mental health and well-being
Explore how connecting with nature can reduce stress and enhance your emotional wellness.
Feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of daily life? You're not alone. We can now struggle to find moments of peace and clarity.
But what if the key to enhancing your well-being and regaining your sense of self was as simple as stepping outside and connecting with nature?
The power of micro gestures for how we connect with nature
Imagine starting your day with the sound of birds singing softly outside your window. Instead of rushing through your morning routine, you take a moment to listen, to really listen. These micro gestures can create profound connections with the natural world.
You don’t need to hike up mountains or venture into dense forests. Sometimes, all it takes is a few minutes of stillness and observation to feel the calming presence of nature.
These small acts of mindfulness can help you build a stronger relationship with nature in your everyday life.
Understanding our relationship with nature and its benefits
Our relationship with nature is complex and multifaceted. We often experience fear, longing, curiosity, and even avoidance, yet we have an inherent need to connect with the natural world. Recognizing and nurturing this relationship is crucial for our well-being.
Nature engagement is not one-size-fits-all though; it varies depending on our physical abilities, location, and interests. This personalized approach to connecting with nature ensures that everyone can find a way to experience its benefits.
Simple steps to integrate nature into your daily life
1. Start with Small Steps
Begin by incorporating micro gestures into your daily routine. Watch the sunrise, notice the clouds, or simply enjoy the fresh air. These small actions can have a big impact on your mood and well-being.
2. Embrace Accessibility
Nature is for everyone. Whether you live in a bustling city or a rural area, there are countless ways to experience nature. Find what works best for you, be it a walk in the park, tending to a small garden, or even just sitting by a window with a view of the outdoors.
3. Make Nature a Priority
Elevate your relationship with nature on your list of priorities. Make time to value and cherish your interactions with the natural world. Schedule regular nature breaks, plan weekend outings, or simply set aside moments each day to appreciate the beauty around you.
4. Find Beauty Everywhere
Look for glimpses of nature in your everyday life. Whether it's a flower growing in a sidewalk crack or the changing colors of the sky, these small moments of beauty can foster a deeper appreciation and connection to the environment.
5. Engage with Nature Indoors
If you can't go outside, bring nature to you. Listen to nature podcasts, watch documentaries, or enjoy nature-inspired artwork. There are many ways to experience the benefits of nature without leaving your home.
Embrace nature’s healing power for enhanced well-being
Connecting with nature is a powerful way to enhance your well-being. By incorporating micro gestures, embracing accessibility, making nature a priority, finding beauty everywhere, and engaging with nature indoors, you can profoundly enrich your life.
Nature has the power to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost overall health. So, step outside, take a deep breath, and let the natural world nurture and heal you.
Ready to reduce stress and enhance your emotional wellness? Discover the positive impacts of nature with our course, 'Find Your Way.'
Learn practical strategies to connect with nature and improve your mental health. Enroll now and start your journey towards a more balanced and fulfilled life!
Women Outdoors
Discover a community of friendly and fun-loving women of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels based in the UK. With Women Outdoors, founder Emma Winters has created an environment where you can be your authentic self, develop outdoor skills, connect with like-minded women and go home with a big smile on your face.
Go here if: You are seeking outdoor events across the UK and abroad to inspire you and connect with nature and other people.
What is it: Women Outdoors is a community of friendly and fun-loving women of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels based in the UK. They create an environment where you can be your authentic self, develop outdoor skills, connect with like-minded women and go home with a big smile on your face.
Why you need it: Getting into nature is about more than just beautiful views. It also brings significant mental and physical benefits such as:
Increased self-esteem
Reduced stress, anxiety and depression
Improved fitness
Increased feelings of connection and belonging
Even more joy and fun
What they offer: All of Women Outdoors’ events are led by certified guides and instructors in the Peak District, Snowdonia, Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District or abroad. Events include hiking, wild swimming, paddleboarding, climbing, navigation courses and wellness retreats.
What else do you need to know: To ensure all women have access to life-enhancing outdoor opportunities, they organise one free hike a month and provide concessionary tickets for paid events.
In their own words: We asked founder Emma Winters to tell us her story
Hey, I’m Emma, I’m 38 years old and I’m a qualified Mountain Leader & SUP Instructor from Hull, Yorkshire.
I have a huge passion for exploring nature and outdoor activities. Over the last 15 years I have travelled to 47 countries to absorb different landscapes and cultures, meet many diverse people and try lots of fun outdoor hobbies.
The whole of my working career has been as a Procurement professional in the corporate world but in December 2021 I decided to change my life forever. I handed in my notice and hit the road travelling for one year.
This gifted me with time and space to think and reflect on what I’m passionate about and where I want to spend my time and energy.
It was during this time that I founded Women Outdoors with the mission to break down confidence and financial barriers that prevent women from getting outside, trying new things and meeting new people.
Women Outdoors creates a safe space for all women, provides financial support where required and teaches the community about conservation, flora & fauna & outdoor skills.
If you would like to know more about my journey and creating Women Outdoors go here.
Women Outdoors
For UK events go here. For trips abroad go here.
For private events contact emma.winter@womenoutdoorsuk.com
(Save) Mental Health Swims
Discover why we’re supporting Mental Healh Swims, the multi-award-winning mental health peer support community.
We’re thrilled to announce that over the Autumn we will be supporting Mental Health Swims. 10% of profits from all our UK courses, products, and 1:1 sessions. will go towards supporting this multi-award-winning mental health peer support community.
Founder Rachel Ashe talked to us about what Mental Health Swims is and why your support is so needed right now:
This Photo: Gabriel Redd Photography | Header Photo: Mike French Creative
Who we are
Mental Health Swims is a mental health peer support community. Since 2019 we have grown to have around 140 outdoor locations across the UK and beyond.
In the last couple of years, we have trained 350 volunteers to create safe and welcoming spaces for over 15,000 people who want to improve their mental health and make connections in their community through swimming.
Why we are unique
We have a unique offering because we are led by lived experience. I have a complex mental illness myself. All our volunteers and our team have lived experience of mental health challenges either personally or through supporting someone close to them.
We focus on accepting people as they are today with no expectation for transformation. It’s not that our participants don’t experience amazing benefits to their well-being but we want to foster an environment where no one feels pressure to be anything but themselves. We want to make it as easy as possible for people living with mental illness to join in, to feel accepted and included and ultimately fight mental illness stigma by doing this.
Why we are needed
Mental Health peer support groups are needed to take pressure off the NHS
It offers support which is not time-limited
It’s complimentary to existing care
There are also pathways for improvement - if you decide to train as a swim host you can build new skills which is confidence building and empowering.
Cost-effective
Our funding model means we can onboard a new swim host who can provide this service to a new location and its community in under a month; we won a Mind Charity Marsh award for innovative peer support because of this approach.
Why we need your help
Times are really tough for lots of charities and CICs at the moment and sadly some of them have had to close.
We really don’t want that to happen to Mental Health Swims because we support tens of thousands of people every year.
Photo: Gabriel Redd Photography
To learn more about Mental Health Swims you can read our interview with Rachel here.
Mental Health Swims free, safe and inclusive swim meet-ups are now Nationwide. You can search their map on the website to discover the closest one to you.
You can support Mental Health Swims directly through supporting their crowdsourcing campaign, and/or with any session booked, course attended, or product purchased through us.
Photo: Gabriel Redd Photography
Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh
Discover the well-being benefits of a world-class botanical garden beloved by locals and visitors alike
Go here if: you’re looking for a place of tranquility, an escape from the busyness of city life, and a way to be more mindful of nature
What is it: A renowned botanical garden, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is one of the world’s leading centers for plant research, conservation, and education. Founded in 1670 as a physic garden for medicinal plants, this world-class botanical institution now reaches across 70 acres and includes over 13,500 species in its living collection.
Why you’ll love it: While you wander through the Chinese Hillside, Rock Garden, or Alpine Houses, you’ll also be accessing the positive well-being benefits of such a stunning natural setting from reducing stress levels and improving mood and mental clarity, to increasing your sense of awe. To make the most of this soothing and meditative location, pay close attention to the different textures, smells, and sounds of the ever-evolving natural spaces around you.
And while here, access the other well-being Pathways: as you walk the grounds you’re body will be releasing endorphins, those feel-good hormones (mind-body connection); you can visit alone, or you could invite a friend, for the added benefits of social interaction; and follow your curiosity as you learn about the plant-life nurtured here.
We like how a place like the RBGE that could feel like just a tourist destination has woven itself into the lives of locals, who seek out moments of respite here. It’s very much become a part of the fabric of city life rather than only a momentary break from it.
How to bring this into your life: Beyond visiting the gardens, the RBGE offers a range of events like flower shows, art exhibitions in the stunning Inverleith House, and monthly behind the scenes.
It also hosts restorative programs designed to connect with well-being including Food Socials, dementia-friendly Garden socials, and skills share workshops.
For some seasonal joy, check out the winter illuminations and spring flower displays.
And if you can’t get there read The Fair Botanists by Sara Sheridan, the Waterstones Scottish Book of the Year set in the gardens.
In their own words: “When visiting Scotland, a trip to the world-famous Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is unmissable. Experience an extravaganza of plants from around the world, learn about the Garden's rich and diverse Living Collection and discover a history dating back to the 17th century.”
Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh
Edinburgh
EH3 5NZ
And did we mention the garden entry is free
How nature can help us feel better in our everyday lives
How can we broaden out what nature can be for us: the micro gestures that have us listening for bird songs to the bigger-ask ones that have us hiking up mountains? Discover more of nature’s wellbeing benefits.
You do not need to be ‘outdoorsy’ to access nature’s benefits for our mental health and emotional well-being.
We know that we needed to hear that. It can often feel like the entry point to the natural world can be so high, and involve trips to REI, extensive bush-crafting knowledge and an orienteering certificate.
We’re definitely not saying hike in flip-flops or wander into the wilderness without knowing what you’re really taking on. But we are saying there are many, many ways to find yourself in the natural world and to do so in some really simple ways.
We love National Parks, but we also love that field we walk through after dropping our kids off, and that lake we can wander around with a close friend while having a chat on a Sunday morning. We get so much from looking out the window and catching sunsets, or planting something in our garden and willing it to grow (this one is very mixed for us). We feel happy around trees (though slightly less happy in the middle of a forest), and take us to any beach at any time and our hearts will sing. There’s a way into nature for all of us.
Here are just some of the ways to explore where your curiosity might take you as you find ways to wander through the natural world (with not a blistered hiking boot in sight).
To read:
How to overcome eco-anxiety
The Norwegian love of friluftsliv and why being in the fresh air can help us all feel good
A secret sanctuary created with hope in Los Angeles
How a search for female gardeners combatted this writer’s loneliness
How bad air quality is connected to depression later in life
Inspiring books for going outside
A land art masterpiece in the Nevada desert
How to assess the benefits of nature and walking in nature
To do:
Become a community scientist and discover the animals in your neighborhood
Discover The Gardening Mind on Substack
Join 72 Seasons
Plant organic seeds
To watch:
To discover:
How can we broaden out what nature can be for us: the micro gestures that have us listening for bird songs to the bigger-ask ones that have us hiking up mountains?
How do you see nature as something that affects your emotional well-being and mental health?
Let us know how you navigate this aspect of your everyday life.
How nature can benefit our emotional well-being
We’re learning more about nature’s positive impacts on our emotional well-being and mental health. But how do you access its benefits in your everyday life? We have some ideas for you.
Let’s think about nature for a moment. What comes to mind for you?
We’re learning more about nature’s positive impacts on our emotional well-being and mental health. But how do you access its benefits in your everyday life?
We’ve rounded up some things to read, do, watch and experience so that you can both learn about nature and live in alignment with it.
Read through articles about what happens to our bodies and brains when we walk in nature, try a ‘Going Outside Challenge’, watch an unexpectedly funny talk on foraging, or get to dinner on a beach with a hundred strangers. You’ll learn some of the ways nature can positively impact your emotional well-being and mental health.
Just explore where your curiosity takes you as you find ways to wander through the natural world.
To read:
Just two hours of nature a week offers benefits to our health and well-being
The unique benefits of walking in nature
Are you guilty of ‘plant blindness’? What plants are saying about us
How activism can help with climate anxiety
How buying that fleece could save our National Parks
A stunning new green lung in Hong Kong
What we’re learning from leafing through seed catalogues
Water… as a blueprint for health and well-being
To do:
Although we’re now in March, there’s value in starting this at any time: The Go Outside Challenge
How can you begin to notice the nature that is around you
We made it. Look for signs of spring
Try therapy outdoors
Discover a wild sauna
Develop carbon literacy
To watch:
To discover:
Bronx River Foodway (New York, US)
Oko Farms (New York, US)
Flora Grubb Gardens (San Francisco Bay Area, US)
How can we broaden out what nature can be for us: the micro gestures that have us listening for bird songs to the bigger-ask ones that have us hiking up mountains?
How do you see nature as something that affects your emotional well-being and mental health?
Let us know how you navigate this aspect of your everyday life.
A Culture Therapy Prescription | March Edition by Beth Nasce
This month’s Culture Therapy Prescription will help you feel good this season. Discover the podcasts, books, websites, apps, events, and places that can connect you with more of what you need for better emotional and mental well-being.
This month’s Culture Therapy Prescription is written by Beth Nasce, a creative celebrant, writer and primary school teacher, whose passions are seasonal living and celebrating all of life's milestones (the big and small). Beth is constantly experimenting with poetry, non-fiction and short stories and helps other people explore their own creativity too.
Connection & Community
Podcasts: The Real Question, and Harry Potter and the Sacred Text, both by Not Sorry Productions.
TRQ is a place for people to explore deeper questions about life and think about how different texts can help us with those answers. The current edition of the podcast is called Should I Quit and its guests come on with a question about whether they should quit something and Vanessa the host does a sort of chaplaincy service for them.
HPST is treating the HP stories like a bible study. Each episode goes chapter by chapter reading it through a theme e.g. love or jealousy and then they use old religious practices to deepen their questioning.
This is the second read of the books (I think book 5 right now?) and they do an amazing job of holding this tension of the ultimate question about whether HP should or shouldn't be given airtime anymore given the author’s recent statements. The podcast has a large LGBTQ+ fanbase so it has been really helpful in understanding the difficulties with it.
Modern Life / Untethering
Book: The Power of Ritual by Casper Ter Keuile is a fantastic book that looks at rituals and spirituality from a secular lens.
Casper is not a Christian but has grown up sort of culturally that way, and while traditional Christianity feels inaccessible to him as a gay man at times he also sees the power and beauty of many ancient practices.
In this book, he explores the ways different religions and civilisations access rituals and explores how we can see them being used in secular contexts too e.g. Soul Cycle or CrossFit.
In the book, he talks about doing a tech sabbath every Friday night for 24 hours where he turns off his phone and all tech. He says the mantra "the work isn't done but it's still time to stop" and it's something I TRY to do. It always feels very enriching and expansive when I do it!
Nature
Podcast: As The Season Turns by Ffern and Lia Leendertz.
Lia Leendertz who writes The Almanac releases an enhanced audio version of the monthly entries of her book on the first of every month. The podcast version also includes a soundscape meditation, a herbal musing by Zoe Gilbert and a Welsh folk song.
In my newsletter Spark and Fable, each month I follow a weekly pattern - of things to look forward to this month (a combination of seasonal events and celebration days) - a seasonal recipe - field notes (where I simply write what is going on at this moment in time outside) - and a monthly roundup of favourite things (including tree, plant and flower of the month!)
Mind & Body
Book: The Self Care Year by Alison Davies is a lovely book that has different ways to care for yourself both physically and mentally in line with the seasons. There are meditations to do, pamper products to make yourself, yoga positions to try, etc.
Purpose
Podcasts: Quiet The Hive is a podcast where host Jane Galloway mixes solo musings with interviews of people in all different industries. Her linking thread is well-being and often the people in the interviews have a clear vision for their project/mission which is always very inspiring. Most people in it have simple ideas and not many resources but just go for it. Her solo episodes are also very inspiring and give lots of ideas for getting to know yourself better.
Squiggly Careers podcast. Hosts Helen and Sarah send out a weekly podcast about careers that are never really linear.
Spirituality & Meaning
Book: Your Spiritual Almanac by Joey Hulin is an evergreen almanac that can be used every year. Each month has a theme e.g. abundance, rest, and alignment, with affirmations, meditations, journal prompts, ways of paying it forward, yoga poses, fables and creative ideas.
Podcast: The RobCast by Rob Bell. Rob Bell is a spiritual writer/speaker who used to lead a megachurch back in the 90s and early 2000s until he wrote a book called Love Wins which basically said "there is no heaven and hell" or words to that effect, and he was very much ousted by the church. He is a beloved friend of Elizabeth Gilbert and Glennon Doyle (I think) and while he uses the Bible and what he called "Jesus stories" in a lot of his podcasts I do feel he comes at it from a totally different way and isn't really seen as a "Christian" podcast. This podcast is great for everyone but perhaps, especially for people who used to be Christians or who struggle with calling themselves that.
Mental Wellbeing
App: Finch is kind of like a Tamagotchi on your phone, only you're not feeding and watering it with food, etc but you're feeding it by doing little reflections or mini well-being activities.
Website: 750Words. If you've ever attempted morning pages (from Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way) this is sort of a digital version of that (750 words is roughly 3 pages)
It's essentially a private place for you to write and store your words. The beauty of doing it on the website as opposed to handwriting is you get a sort of analysis afterward that details the themes you wrote about, and your predominant feelings and ways of writing (eg. introverted/extroverted). You also get badges for keeping streaks or doing certain things like writing early in the morning etc. (love a bit of gamification!)
It has become a daily practice for me in the same way handwriting them used to but I feel I access deeper thoughts and feelings, like lots of "gunk" coming out onto the screen. Perhaps it's because I find I type as fast as I think whereas my handwriting is always a little slower and I often trip over my own thoughts.
I'd recommend it to anyone who struggles with the handwriting element of morning pages but likes the idea of them! (oh and it's totally private too)
Awe & Wonder
Art: Nature Photographer of the Year Exhibition (starts in the Natural History Museum then tours the country). Just looking at how these photographers interpret a category but also the way they can capture nature in such awe-inspiring ways is enough to have you desperate to get outside!
Place: Cambo Gardens in Fife, Scotland is an absolutely stunning garden that has a "wow" moment at every turn! It's a walled garden that's lovingly looked after, which then turns into a woodland walk and before you know it you're on a beach. Oh, and it has a lovely cafe and shop.
Creativity & Culture
Book: Little Stories of Your Life by Laura Pashly is a fabulous book that looks at how we can use social media, storytelling and photography to tell more authentic and creative stories online. It feels like a perfect antidote to the showoffiness of social media (Instagram in particular) and gives a beautiful roadmap of how we could all show up online in a more positive, creative and authentic way.
Podcast: Sentimental Garbage by Caroline O'Donoghue, especially the latest season of this podcast. Caroline and a guest take a cultural phenomenon or work that society deems as "trashy" and looks at why it isn't and why it is in fact worthy of being treated like high culture. Particular highlights lately have been the movies, Chicago and Bring It On, and a discussion about weddings.
Doing Good
App: Seek (also nature really!) Seek by iNaturalist is a citizen science app that also helps you learn more about the flora and fauna around you. You begin by holding your phone on a plant/insect/bird/stone until the app identifies it, you then take a picture and save it to the app which then records where you spotted the thing you've just snapped. This then gives a clearer picture of what exists where and when. There are also monthly challenges like "butterflies" etc
In a similar vein: Joining in with RSPB's great garden birdwatch in January, and The Big Butterfly Count in the spring are great ways of helping scientists understand species numbers and placements, etc. I'm sure there are similar things with The Woodland Trust, The National Trust and there's a bluebell one too - all ways of helping people to track patterns, migrations, growth and decline etc
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