Taking care of yourself in Lancashire

With the busy hustle and bustle of everyday life, there never seems to be a lot of time for looking after ourselves. But self-care is important, and if you have committed to practise self-care, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Lancashire.

Evidence from a study of 20,000 people found that just two hours a week spent in the great outdoors can help improve health and psychological wellbeing. Which isn’t a hard thing to do when you explore the beautiful county of Lancashire.

If you’re looking to reduce your stress levels, be more present with your surroundings, or better your physical health then getting outside is almost guaranteed to help. It can also help boost your creativity and improve your general mood.

Ways to experience nature in Lancashire
 

The Lancashire coast and countryside offers so many opportunities to enjoy nature. The county has been revealed as a leading destination for health and wellbeing in the UK and we’re not surprised. Local parks and beach spaces like Morecambe Promenade and St Anne’s beach are amongst the many perfect walking spots you’ll find, and you can enjoy a range of accommodation and eateries that make the most of the beautiful scenery.

Walking, wildlife spotting and stargazing
 

No matter what type of walk you are looking for, it’s nearby in Lancashire. From canal walks to long distance walks, to those more suitable for little legs, we’ve also outlined our top 10 Lancashire walks if you need some inspiration to get you going. These walks will allow you to take in the beautiful Lancashire scenery whilst also immersing yourself in the history of our area.

Lancashire is home to several nature reserves where you can bask in nature and do a bit of wildlife spotting too. In the north you can find Leighton Moss and Morecambe Bay nature reserve where you can follow trails, experience their sensory garden or enjoy a bite of local produce in the café. In West Lancashire we have WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre where there’s something for all the family to enjoy, and regular events held throughout the year.

The beautiful countryside doesn’t just offer amazing places for the daytime, with opportunities to experience the beauty of the night sky in the Forest of Bowland Dark Skies area. Find the perfect stargazing spot and relax under the stars for the evening. The annual dark skies festival gives you the chance to learn more about the night sky from the experts too.

Practise a little self-care with a getaway in nature
 

Taking in a new environment surrounded by nature for a few days is the perfect way to hit the refresh button and practice a little self-care. Why not book into Everything Retreat in the Ribble Valley and relax in a lodge? The lodges come complete with hot tub and everything you need to chill out. The award-winning Secret Garden Glamping in Skelmersdale offers the perfect place to get away from it all in a luxury hideaway. Or for a bit of seaside air you could head to the luxurious Ream Hills site and stay in one of their extraordinary geodesic domes which look over the lake on site.

You can also find accommodation providers that offer additional experiences and services to help you enjoy the great outdoors. Rossendale Holiday Cottages offer guided walking services, mountain biking and the use of their Island barbecue and fire pit communal area should the weather allow. Dale House Barn also provide an exclusive location for relaxing, or occupying your mind with their mountain biking experiences or cooking retreats where you can learn how to forage for wild foods or make items like truffles, bread and Easter eggs.

Experience nature with al fresco dining
 

We’re so well known for our amazing eateries and mouth-watering cuisines in Lancashire, that it’s a shame to have to have to hide away indoors when enjoying it. Whilst the weather right now may not inspire you to dine outdoors, if you’re planning the perfect self-care day for later in the year you may want to check out some of the restaurants that provide incredible views and great food.

Moor Hall is well known for its Michelin stars and incredible atmosphere, it’s neighbourhood restaurant The Barn offers a charming rustic setting with beautiful views of the Hall and its lake. Gibbon Bridge Hotel in the heart of the Forest of Bowland also provides absolutely outstanding views out over the rolling fells nearby when you dine on the garden terrace. The Inn at Whitewell offers a terrace overlooking the banks of the River Hodder while enjoying local produce.

For ocean views Aspect Bar & Bistro is the pace to visit, with a relaxed dining atmosphere overlooking Morecambe Bay and the Lake District.

All year dining with a view is also possible thanks to the fantastic greenhouses at The Cartford Inn, where you can enjoy a bit more privacy whilst also experiencing the outdoors.

Tips for making the most of the great outdoors
 

Just by spending time outdoors can help lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones. However, there are ways to help make the most of the effects of the outdoors if you are looking to improve your mood and get the most out of your appointed self-care.

Our first tip is to be present with your surroundings. If you are thinking too much about the things that are causing you stress and anxiety then being outside won’t change much. To be more present when out and about, you could try the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 method. You name 5 things you can see, 4 things you can feel, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell and 1 thing you can taste.

Next up is to switch off from the outside world. Enjoy the company you’re in and the surroundings you are in. Turn your phone off, or if that isn’t possible then at least stay away from distractions like social media.

Finally take a moment to think about the good in your life. Just one positive thought a day can help improve your mood. So whether you are thankful for being able to take a break, afford a meal or for taking in a walk after days of working hard, make a note of it.