NEWEXPERIENCES
TIME FOR SOMETHING NEW CONT .
GARDENING & FLOWERS
There are a multitude of reasons why we should all take up gardening , and it really isn ’ t as hard as some may think . Firstly , you are outdoors , and that in itself has significant effects on our mental health , particularly when it ’ s sunny and we can absorb that vitamin D . It ’ s also a great way to educate ourselves and our children on the benefits of ‘ growing your own ’ – nothing beats eating your own fresh produce straight from the garden . There ’ s an abundance of websites that are bursting with gardening advice , but there are in fact some hands-on experiences right here in Kent that should get you started .
Get Gardening at Brogdale www . brogdalecollections . org
Brogdale runs short courses that cover all aspects of gardening . The introductory gardening class is aimed at novices or gardeners looking to touch up their skills , while others include summer and winter pruning , foraging and beekeeping . These are all about getting out in the fresh air and connecting with nature , also learning skills that you can then apply to your own gardens .
FLOWER ARRANGING Julie Davies Flower Workshops Faversham www . juliedaviesflowerworkshops . co . uk
Julie is the florist who teaches . Her classes share her extensive experience in floristry , enabling attendees to gain the skills and confidence to create flower arrangements with wow-factor . One of the workshops focuses on DIY wedding flowers from table arrangements to button holes , every is covered allowing you to bring your own personal , creative touch to your wedding displays . As well as in house courses , she also offers online flower arranging classes covering subjects such as flower food , displaying and choosing the right flowers .
CREATING A WILDLIFE GARDEN Kent Adult Education Online 2 Feb 2022
Recognising that it ' s never too early to start planning your 2022 garden , KAE ’ s online course , delivered using Zoom , in real time with live interaction from the tutor and fellow learners , will aid you to create a natural haven for you and for wildlife ; whether you have a small window space or a spare corner of your outdoor space . During the course , you ' ll learn how to garden sympathetically for wildlife and be able to enjoy a peaceful natural , outdoor space .
WATER SPORTS
Water has an instant calming effect , so anything that involves water should be a must on your to-do list . Doing exercise releases endorphins and is generally a great mood booster ; pair that with water with it ’ s soothing qualities and you ’ ll be left feeling extremely positive . It ’ s also really beneficial for your joints , will contribute to a stronger physique and in certain cases encourages teamwork – for example canoeing or kayaking . There are great physical and psychological health benefits of water sports , and if you love the water , you should definitely think of taking part .
Go Wild Swimming
Cold water swimming has had a lot of press over the past 18 months , and it ’ s really no surprise as doing it can have lasting effects on both your physical and mental wellbeing . Wild water swimming also allows us to connect with nature . Some swimmers quote that they have health conditions that have improved through swimming . Here in Kent we are lucky enough to have an abundance of rivers , lakes and unspoilt coastline , making for beautiful spots for wild swimming . Best beach spots include Hythe Beach , Folkestone ’ s Sandy Beach and Botany Bay . The following websites below are great for more information on wild swimming , groups will regularly host swimming events open for anyone to join .
www . kentseaswimmers . com - Learn about upcoming swim events happening across Kent www . outdoorswimmingsociety . com - Stories , events and equipment reviews for those enthusiasts . www . swimming . org / openwater - Tips and tricks on wild swimming in the UK
PADDLE BOARDING
Paddle boarding is not only a great cardio workout , it also helps with balance and can considerably reduce stress levels . With the plethora of beautiful Kent bays , what better way to explore than via paddle board , and there are plenty of places to learn to do it .
Joss Bay Surf School www . jossbay . co . uk / copy-of-surf
Offer surf and stand up paddle board lessons . Learn with a group or pay a little extra for 1- 2-1 sessions .
Kent Surf School www . kentsurfschool . co . uk
Kent ’ s leading surf school also offers SUP lessons for beginners and the more advanced . Join in hours of fun with the experienced team , in a safe environment and get to grips with the equipment .
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