VMCBD13-DIGITAL | Page 41

In a rapidly-changing world where things once taken for granted are now uncertain , more people than ever before report feeling stressed and anxious .

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted every aspect of our lives , from the way we work , to how we socialise and spend our spare time . Recently a lot of focus on mindfulness has been brought to the forefront of the mental health discussion with tailored apps such as Headspace and Calm .
However , a growing trend is to take part in immersive retreats to help feel calmer and more connected with your inner self . Here we look at some of the more quirky ways that you can look after your mental health right here in the UK .
And if activities such as early morning swims , bootcamp-style fitness classes or hot stone massages appeal to you , then check out some of the options we have found for you .

Thera-Sea

A two-night retreat from £ 315 per person
Here you can escape to the Cornish countryside
for surfing , wild swimming , bushcraft classes and foraging , while focusing on mindfulness , yoga and relaxation .
Thera-Sea will see you stay at a beautiful cottage , hut or treehouse along the banks of the River Fal , embarking on various workshops designed to help reprogram your sleep and wellbeing .

The Zest Life

A three-day retreat from £ 425 per person
We found a rustic three-day retreat in the east of Anglesey , with luxurious accommodation on the Plas Cadnant estate . You can enjoy their wide range of vegetarian food after taking the opportunity of a wild dip in the river flowing through the estate .
Designed to recharge your body , the three-days will be divided into a schedule of meditation , massage and guided walks through the countryside .

Dorset Fitness Retreat

A five-day retreat from £ 634 per person
Test both your physical and mental strength along the Jurassic Coast , combining yoga and meditation with rigorous bootcamp-style fitness classes to really push your limits .
An elegant five-day retreat at the Old Rectory , an elegant home built in 1730 , with organic homecooked food available for every meal , you will feel reborn after this week away .

The Tree Relaxation Retreat

A weekend retreat from £ 265 per person
Enjoy your stay at the award winning The Tree , with the beautiful backdrop of the North Yorkshire Moors to consume you for the duration of your stay .
Offering a holistic approach to an individual ’ s relaxation , the retreat accepts both traditional and religious practices to achieve this goal .
All vegetarian food , walks on the moors , aromatherapy and hot stone massages are designed to provide comfort and relief in a place where mobile phones do not operate .

Vajraloka Retreat Centre

A week-long retreat from £ 315 per person
Situated in the heart of Denbighshire in North Wales , this well-established Buddhist-run retreat offers a chance to ‘ liberate you from your electronic devices ’.
Beginners to mindfulness practices are not advised to book this trip , but experienced individuals can use it to take their practices to the next level .
Enjoy day-long sessions of meditation from 6am onwards all tucked away at a rustic , but comfortable , stone cottage .
41