Spring into Action!

Isn’t it a nice feeling when you notice the days are slowly getting longer? The lighter evenings are an indication that we’re heading into the spring – the perfect time to try something different, explore new places and (hopefully) enjoy some sunshine!

We have all likely heard the phrase ‘spring clean’; but this doesn’t just relate to decluttering the cupboards (although that in itself is a wonderful wellbeing activity!). A spring clean can also mean having a check in with yourself by clearing your mind. It’s about filling the path ahead of you with new, fun, exciting and relaxing things to support your overall wellbeing.

Longer and sunnier days encourage us to get outside more and use the natural environment to get our dose of physical activity and some much-needed vitamin D – which we all need to keep our bones, teeth, and muscles healthy.

Remember, this doesn’t have to mean running miles every day as anything that gets you moving and your heart pumping counts towards being active! There are some wonderful local activities on our doorstep that will enable us to feel the benefits of being active outdoors.

Join your local warm and friendly Park Run group

Dorset is home to a number of Park Runs, including Weymouth, Bournemouth, Poole, Moors Valley and Bridport; all of which are warm, friendly, inclusive and have a real community feel. Also, despite the name, you don’t have to run as those of us wishing to walk the route are equally welcomed. Find your local park run.

Explore local walking trails

Walking is a wonderful way to be active and get a mental and physical health boost. With so many great places to explore in Dorset, we are spoilt for choice! Whether you like coastal, countryside or rural routes, there is something for everyone. We’ve got a list of accessible walks in Dorset for all to enjoy.

On the topic of walking, if the idea of moving more appeals to you but aren’t sure where to start, look out for LiveWell Dorset’s walking campaign which is heading your way this spring.

Take-up outdoor volunteering

This is a great way to get out in the fresh air, have fun, connect with others, learn something new, and give back to your community – all fantastic ways to boost your wellbeing.

Across our county, there are so many exciting outdoor volunteering opportunities, involving parks, nature reserves and gardens. BCP Council are looking for volunteers for Bournemouth and Christchurch conservation projects, find out more on the BCP website. There are also conservation volunteering opportunities with Dorset Council Rangers and Dorset Wildlife Trust – all you have to do is choose the right one for you and register.

Volunteering outdoors is a wonderful way to improve your physical and mental health, as well as make a real difference to the community and environment.

Get into gardening

If you enjoy spending time outside and are interested in the idea of growing fruit and vegetables, there are some great local gardening projects you can get involved with.

Dorset Mind offer ‘Eco-in-Mind’ groups in Dorchester and Weymouth – and they’re always looking for volunteers to join in. The eco-therapy projects are beneficial to your physical and mental health. They help you feel relaxed, improve confidence, and reduce stress.

Even if gardening is new to you, why not use this time to give it a go? Growing your own fruit and vegetables will provide a great sense of achievement, as well as some delicious and nourishing food to be proud of.

This year, I would encourage everyone to use spring as a time to really embrace the longer days, lighter evenings and make the most of the natural environment; your mood and wellbeing will thank you for it! 

Take your next step to LiveWell 

We're here for your health and wellbeing. Want to make a change? But don't want to do it alone? Register or contact us today to take your next step to LiveWell.