Wellbeing and the Canal: A place to connect
Wellbeing is a significant priority within local and national agendas at present. Here at the Basingstoke Canal Society this is no different. We take pride in helping to engage people, groups, organisations and our many volunteers in taking steps to understand and develop their own wellbeing. Wellbeing encompasses feelings of comfort, happiness and health and are important factors which we often neglect in our hectic daily lives.
To help signpost local pursuits the Basingstoke Canal Society has just launched a new section on its website which includes articles on activities and wellbeing that you can do or get involved in. There are a variety of activities surrounding the Basingstoke Canal and this is a great place to look for new things to try.
If you’re looking for a new activity to try we recommend paddling activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding or canoeing. At Easter the Basingstoke Canal Visitor Centre in Mytchett will be reopening its paddle boats for hire service where you can hire pedalos, canoes, kayaks and rowing boats. This is definitely something to have a go at if you’re looking to try something new. There are also local groups which you could join such as the Basingstoke and Deane Canoe Club in Odiham.
Alternatively if you wish to stick to dry land then there are plenty of stunning walks to enjoy along and around the Basingstoke Canal. There are a variety of walks to choose from such as the Odiham Circular, Frimley Lodge Park / Basingstoke Canal Hiking Route or West Byfleet to Hampton Court. Details of these can be found on our website and in our ‘Rambles on the Basingstoke Canal’ booklet which includes 12 walks suited to experienced walkers as well as families.
Being closer to nature and to the water can allow us to feel more grounded with the world around us, allowing us to breath and take a step back from the buzz of modern life. As things begin to pick up again, as we move past lockdowns it is important that we still take time for ourselves and allow time for selfcare.
Looking after ourselves both physically and mentally can have immense benefits to our bodies helping us to become healthier and happier. Maintaining good wellbeing can help you to feel and express a range of emotions, have confidence and positive self-esteem, have good relationships with other people, enjoy the world around you more, cope with stress and adapt better to change.
So with all that the Basingstoke Canal and surrounding areas have to offer why not make it your destination of choice for your next outdoor adventure. Click here to visit the Activities & Wellbeing section of our website.