From an expectation-free hiking trend to an all-inclusive communication guide, we have ten wellbeing recommendations just for you

1. Page-turners

A Book to Brighten Your Day: Murphy’s Sketches by Kerri Cunningham

The talented artist behind the social media account @murphys_sketches has created a book for all of her much-loved illustrations to be treasured in paper form. Through her playful sketches, she captures the essence of finding joy in the simple moments, serving as a well of inspiration and comfort.

(Out now, Hodder & Stoughton)

2. Out and about

Soft hiking

Are you an adventure enthusiast who simply loves the thrill of the journey, and isn’t too concerned with achieving a specific goal? If you can relate, get ready to embrace soft hiking! Put simply, soft hiking is hiking without a competitive stance, purely for the enjoyment and the experience. Where will your soft hiking escapades take you?

3. Act of kindness

Make your friends feel heard

Do you notice that someone in your friendship circle always gets spoken over by more extroverted friends in the group? Let’s make a conscious effort to circle back to them, and ensure their voice is heard. Just because they may be a little quieter, doesn’t mean their thoughts aren’t fascinating and worth listening to.

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4. Lend us your ears

‘Best Friend Therapy’

Elizabeth Day is an author and broadcaster known for her self-help podcast ‘How to Fail’. Now, she joins forces with psychotherapist Emma Reed-Turrell – her best friend of 20 years – to chat about everyday challenges, and address them with compassion and honesty as if they were your own BFFs.

(Available on all podcast platforms)

5. Plugged-In

Caroline | Career Coach

Whether you’re in the middle of switching careers, or looking to succeed in your current job, Caroline’s got you covered with her informative videos. Get ready to hit the ground running, because she’s got all the tips and tricks you need to take charge of your professional development with confidence.

(@whathappensnow.co on TikTok)

6. Lesson Learned

Communicate with those with hearing loss

At RNID, the national hearing loss charity offers a wealth of resources on how to communicate effectively with those with hearing loss, including practical tools such as guides on making your workplace more inclusive. By educating ourselves, we can foster a society where everyone is valued and included.

(Head to rnid.org.uk for information and support)

7. Tech tip-offs

Hub of Hope app

When you’re in need of mental health support, not knowing which way to turn in the moment can be really overwhelming. Fortunately, mental health charity ‘Chasing the Stigma’ has launched an app that gives you no-nonsense national and local resources to access effortlessly right at your fingertips.

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(Head to hubofhope.co.uk for more information)

8. Get going

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is another mind-body practice that is popular in the fitness world, and for good reason. You might associate it with self-defence, but it is often referred to as the ‘moving meditation’ because of its slow, graceful movements and breathing exercises. This ancient practice is specifically designed to harmonise both the mind and body.

(Search YouTube for videos)

9. Square eyes

Dear Evan Hansen

If you’re looking for a sensitive film about healing, hope, and connection, watch the film adaptation of the Tony award-winning musical, Dear Evan Hansen. Following the life of Evan, a teenager with social anxiety, the story explores the struggles behind teen mental health and finding self-acceptance.

(Available to watch on Netflix)

10. Treat yourself

The Calm Club Yoga Deck

Ready to take your first step into yoga? Starting something new can feel daunting but, fear not, the Calm Club Yoga Deck is here to help you kick off your fitness journey with a skip in your step and a smile on your face. Included in the pack are 50 illustrated cards with easy-to-follow poses to help you find your inner yogi.

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(£15, katikaia.com)