Walk Away from Stress...

Getting on for half a million of us reported sick with work-related stress, depression and anxiety in 2015-16, according to the UK Health and Safety Executive; stress accounted for 37% of all work-related ill health cases. Add in the numerous non-work related cases, and of course the under-reporting that’s all too common, and it’s clear that stress is a major health issue, but one which is all too often overlooked. April is Stress Awareness Month, with information campaigns promoting ways of combatting the effects of stress that anyone can take up.

Eating the right foods, such as nuts, oranges and spinach, produces stress-busting minerals and vitamins. Sunshine, as little as 10 minutes a day, can increase energy levels. Getting some extra sleep helps. But exercise in particular improves the production of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin which strongly affect stress, and walking is recommended as a counter to stress for everyone.

A gentle walking holiday could be just what you need if you’re feeling the effects of stress. Recharge your batteries and ‘be in the moment’ as you stroll around the restorative countryside of the Lake District on our Mindfulness in the Mountains holiday. Or treat yourself to peace and tranquillity on a South Downs Spa Experience Break, combining fresh air with Champneys spa treatments. Exercise, good food, and sleep-promoting relaxation are guaranteed – sunshine, perhaps not so much! Chapters Experience Holidays has many more stress-busting experiences to choose from.