Thanks to new research, most of us know that taking time to be in a forest can help quell feelings of stress and anxiety and promote an atmosphere of wellbeing.
Similar effects come from being near large bodies of water – lakes or the sea - and even birdwatching. Scientists have discovered that just seeing and hearing birds can improve our feelings of wellbeing for up to eight hours afterwards.
So, if you could do with a little calm and tranquillity right now, here’s how to grab yourself some mindful moments in the magical New Forest.
Marvel at the - The New Forest has the highest concentration of ancient trees in Western Europe – a living St Paul’s Cathedral. Most of our forests are accessible on short walks but one of the best places to contemplate their might and splendour – especially as we turn towards autumn - is Brackley Inclosure near Bolderwood. Take the time to examine and to touch the trees’ vast trunks, to listen to the sound of the wind in the boughs and the distant birdsong.
Another great place to enjoy a mindful moment is at the Knightwood Oak. You don’t have to call this ancient beauty ‘Your Majesty’ but, at a possible 600 years old – some say just over 400 - it’s no wonder that this incredible tree is regarded by all who love her as ‘The Queen of the Forest’! She’s been alive since before the Battle of Trafalgar, American Independence, and stood through the darkest days of two world wars – and she is still growing.
See the New Forest ponies – Take the train to Brockenhurst or Beaulieu Road and wander onto Yew Tree Heath and around to The Drift, a popular stopping-off place for our world-famous roaming ponies. Other secret spots are the bend in the middle of Beaulieu village, Brockenhurst Watersplash, and Hatchet Pond although, because of their nature and number – around 5,000 – New Forest ponies can be found anywhere within the National Park. Keep a respectful distance, do not approach their young and NEVER attempt to feed or touch any free-roaming animals and you may be rewarded with a few minutes to capture some truly amazing shots from a distance as well as feel the benefit of mindfully observing them.
Stare into the horizon - At 423 feet above sea-level, Piper’s Wait hill near Nomansland is the New Forest’s highest point. Turn round slowly for 360 degrees to enjoy views of Hampshire, Dorset, and all the way to Wiltshire then feel the calm wash over you. No wonder they call it ‘skychology’!
Try stand-up paddleboarding – This gentle watersport is said to increase feelings of mindfulness and wellbeing for those who participate. Head to Milford on Sea, where you can take to the waters and give it a go!
Gaze upon the Milky Way – Nearly 90 per cent of the New Forest’s skies fall into the three darkest categories which means you stand a far greater chance of witnessing the magnificent Milky Way and the occasional meteor shower which can help induce the calming feeling of awe. You’ll find dark spots at Bolderwood and Blackwater Arboretum and the Northern Commons but, whatever you do, take care when driving, cycling or walking at night - our animals have no road sense - and always take a torch and a phone, in case of emergencies.
Listen to the sea at Lepe - Find a safe spot to sit on the beach at Lepe Country Park before closing your eyes and listening to the rhythm and wash of the sea over the shingle. Open them again to gaze upon the azure waters and feel the benefit of ‘Blue Mind’, the tranquillity imparted by being near to water. We have more than 40 miles of ‘secret’ coastline for you to contemplate and explore and several of our beaches are lifeguarded, to help you swim or paddle in safety.
Take a mindful walk – New Forest walks last from half a mile to an entire section of the Solent Way and we have more than 100 miles of waymarked tracks, too. Walking mindfully, where you consciously look about you and feel the ground beneath your feet, can improve the wellbeing benefits of this exercise. Wilverley Inclosure takes you through some of the ancient and ornamental woodlands. The route from Brook to Minstead Village will take you through two woodlands, as well as the village of Minstead itself. Or the Bolderwood Radnor Trail will show you some ancient trees as well as the Blackwater, a tributary of the Lymington River.
Visit an art gallery - Research has indicated that looking at original art can reduce stress, and increase immunity. You can find some wonderful works at the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery in Lymington, and New Forest Heritage Centre in Lyndhurst also has some interesting pieces and regular exhibitions.
Don’t forget our built heritage - A recent study suggested that being near to heritage buildings enhances our ‘life satisfaction’. Boost yours by visiting one of the many ancient churches and chapels in the New Forest, from All Saints in Harbridge, to Minstead village church, which dates back to the 12th century, or take a turn about Breamore House near Fordingbridge.
Image - Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa
Retreat from the world – Pamper yourself with a mindful retreat at one of the New Forest’s sumptuous spas. We like the Mindful Meditation class at Lime Wood’s Herb House spa. Or pick one of the tranquil Thai treatments at SenSpa at Careys Manor Hotel in Brockenhurst, for the ultimate opportunity to switch off.