1. Show of your artistic side
Over recent years, adult colouring books have become somewhat of a trend, with many people treating it as a form of relaxation.
Research has found that colouring in is a healthy way to relieve stress. It calms the brain and helps your body relax, which improves sleep and fatigue while decreasing body aches, heart rate, respiration, and feelings of depression and anxiety. It also promotes mindfulness by keep your attention focused on the present moment.
Where can I try it?
Anywhere! That’s the beauty of colouring. Next time to you go away, make sure to pack a colouring book and some pencils, find a quiet spot in the sun and get cracking.
2. Sound therapy
For those wanting to self-reflect and reduce stress, sound therapy could be the perfect solution. It involves the use of tonal instruments such as Himalayan and crystal singing bowls, gongs, monochord and drums, and uses the power of sound to restore balance to the body's energy fields.
Sound therapy focuses on using different vibrations to heal the body, mind and spirit, and could be just what you need.
A great way to try the healing powers of sound is to book a sound bath. There’s no water required – instead you’ll be ‘bathed’ in mix of harmonious sounds designed to soothe and relax. Bliss.
Where can I try it?
Try an ‘intuitive’ sound bath specifically tailored to your needs at The Wellness Foundry in London. Stay at the nearby Best Western Plus Vauxhall Hotel
3. Aerial yoga
We all know yoga is a popular way of practicing mindfulness and improving your wellbeing, but what if traditional yoga isn’t your cup of tea? Well, that’s where aerial yoga comes in.
Aerial yoga combines traditional asana (the physical postures of yoga) and yoga philosophies with the aerial arts. Silk fabrics and/or ropes are hung from above to aid practitioners in forming shapes.
Not only does this form of yoga improve flexibility, stability, and balance, studies have also found that it improves depression and stress levels.
Where can I try it?
Enhance your mood and enjoy an introduction to aerial yoga with a valley view at Yoga & Spice in Whitby. When your feet are firmly on the ground again, head back to Best Western Forest and Vale Hotel. Maybe stop for some fish and chips first, after all, it’s all about balance.
4. Goat yoga
We have aerial yoga on the list but have you also heard of goat yoga?
It’s similar to a regular yoga class but there’s one key difference (yep, you guessed it) …the goats. While you perform different yoga poses, baby goats are placed on your back or around you, creating a light and fun atmosphere.
Goat yoga might sound a bit wild (!) but it can actually improve your wellbeing – we know animals help lower anxiety and feelings of loneliness, and what could give you a better boost than watching cute goats prance around?
Where can I try it?
Try your downward facing… goat at Easton Farm Park in Suffolk, with regular goat yoga sessions held throughout the year. There’s also plenty to keep the kids entertained. Best Western Claydon Hotel in Ipswich is just a short drive away.
Laughter therapy
We all love a good laugh but there could actually be greater wellbeing benefits that come from laughing.
Research has found that laughter reduces anxiety and stress, renders pain manageable and bolsters the immune system. Laughter therapy focuses on using humour to help relieve pain and stress and improve wellbeing.
Where can I try it?
Give giggling a go at Yogain York, where workshops are filled with playful movements. When you’re all laughed out, head back for a relaxing stay at The Fat Badger York, Sure Hotel Collection by Best Western.
