Unplug, Unwind & Reconnect

There are plenty of wonderful opportunities to help you slow down, recharge, and reconnect with a peaceful mind.

Feeling anxious? Then try going for a walk in the woods

Walking around woodland trails cuts anxiety, reduces rumination and boost social connection, new research shows.

Participants who followed self-led woodland wellbeing trails reported a 38% drop in rumination, a 31% reduction in anxiety and a 20% rise in feelings of social connection, according to research examining Forestry England’s nature-based mental health programme.

Living on St Mary’s Island and catching the train out to Cuckfield is a great way to swap the coast for the trees. Once you're out in the Wealden Woods, the miles start to stack up and you can really settle into a proper stride on that Sussex soil.

Getting away for a long walk like this is brilliant for clearing the head and just finding a bit of balance:

• Waterside Start: Beginning at the Island, the water has a way of settling things down before you even hit the trail.

• The Woods: Spending time in the ancient woodland, surrounded by the smell of damp earth and timber, is a massive boost for your mood.

• The View: Coming up onto the ridges near Cuckfield gives you a look out over the Weald. It helps put the small, daily stresses into perspective when you can see that far.

A walk of this length is more about the journey than anything else. It gives you time to listen to your body as the ground rises and the air cools under the trees. Being totally present in the moment like that is a rare treat these days.

When you finally get into Cuckfield, there’s no need to rush off. Grabbing a beer and a packet of crisps is the best way to let the stillness of the village sink in before heading home.