PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

Spring has sprung. Have you? It’s time to throw out the old and find new things to do – studies show doing something new makes you happier and can even protect you from illness and disease.

The thrill we get from trying something new is more than a moment. Research shows novel experiences not only produce the ‘feel good’ chemical dopamine but also train your brain to remember how good that experience felt. The ‘natural high’ feels so good we go back for more.

Feel The Fear But Do It Anyway

Fear can make us avoid new things. We miss out on the pleasure of the dopamine hit now and forever because our brain never gets to create that memory.

Small Steps

Take it slowly. What were you doing when you were happiest recently? What do you look forward to or want to do more of? This works with relationships too.

Your responses to these questions will help you opt for activities, experiences and people that help you feel happy and fulfilled.

Stop Scrolling

Screen time spent ‘doomscrolling’ (reading bad and upsetting news) makes us feel more stressed.

Keep It Simple

With any new activity, do one thing at time and plan it for times when you’re most likely to be able to keep it up. If it stops being fun, find a new one!

Visit Somewhere New

The Lake House in Waterloo is shortlisted as a ‘Hidden Gem’ in the Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards. Enjoy a coffee with spectacular views across the marina.

GO SOMEWHERE OLD AND SOMEWHERE BLUE!

Known for a spectacular carpet of bluebells in late spring, Murdishaw Valley is an area of 36 hectares of ancient woodland, ponds and wildflowers just south of Runcorn New Town.

Murdishaw Wood is part of the Mersey Forest which stretches across Merseyside from Sefton to Cheshire. It’s a haven of opportunities if you’re interested in volunteering and learning such skills as bird identification, photography and helping wildlife.

Visit merseyforest.org.uk

Call 01925 816 217

Email mail@merseyforest.org.uk

FIVE STEPS TO WELLBEING...

With People

This builds a sense of belonging and self worth.

Being active is great for your fitness and your mental health.