Park Pause

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Posted 2020-10-08 by Tony Collins ⇒ follow

People living in the Lichfield area of Staffordshire are being urged to boost their wellbeing by taking part in a series of park activities designed to help the mind as well as the body. The activities are being rolled out throughout the district's parks or open spaces, including the impressive Beacon Park in the centre of Lichfield itself. A free online booklet has been launched to help people take time in nature, to benefit their health and wellbeing. and reduce stress. Ruth Piddington, Community & Education Officer for Lichfield District Council, has achieved a diploma in mindfulness. Until recently she had been leading Health Walks around Lichfield's historic parks, but these have been put on hold due to the coronavirus. So, in order to help encourage people to soak up all the benefits of the great outdoors, Ruth has developed a range of exercises that incorporate her new skills. From breathing techniques and using all your senses, to spotting colours in nature and getting up close and personal with tree bark, these are just some of the eight activities in the activity pack.

Ruth said: "I am really pleased to be able to share what I learnt about mindfulness with everyone. In this often hectic world, especially with the stress caused by the outbreak of Covid-19, taking time in nature, and to be in the moment, should be good for your health and wellbeing. This is why I've put together eight activities for everyone to try in your local parks or green open spaces. You can think of them like exercises for the brain - the more often you try them, the longer you will be able to focus, increasingly enhancing your health and wellbeing. And, for everyone who enjoys , we have extra activities in a follow-up booklet, so there are plenty of ways to practice boosting your wellbeing."