Nature, art and ancient sites across the North York Moors are set to be featured in a national park initiative designed to help people discover places and activities where they can relax, slow down and take a break from busy daily life
The North York Moors National Park’s Mindful Month, taking place throughout September, will offer a range of events and experiences designed to support wellbeing through nature, creativity and gentle exploration
Vicky Burton, marketing officer for the North York Moors National Park, said: “This year’s Mindful Month is a great reminder, ahead of the autumn and winter months, that spending time away from the digital world can be a great way of boosting our own health and wellbeing
Mindful Month – Cleveland Way Retreat (Image: Pretty Gritty)
Advertisement
Advertisement
“Protected spaces such as the North York Moors are becoming known for their Natural Health Service role in helping to make people feel calmer and more confident
“Mindful Month reflects this as it shows what a great relaxation rer own idea of wellness, whether it’s being active, creative or curious about their surroundings.”
New to the programme this year is a land art session with Yorkshire artist Winston Plowes
Participants will be guided in creating temporary works of art using natural materials at Coast & Camplight, a rewilded site near Whitby
Advertisement
Advertisement
On September 5, the Mindful on the Moor Art & Wellbeing Festival will take place at Danby Lodge National Park Centre
Workshops will explore the symbolism of the area’s standing stones, rock art and witch posts, before participants create their own sigils—personalised pieces of art representing goals or affirmations
Other creative sessions will include writing imaginary woodland field notes, printing with foliage and sunlight, making clay pots, practising yoga, and joining a didgeridoo music workshop
Further events across the park include a Tibetan Sound Relaxation evening at Falling Foss waterfall, hosted by Nurturing Retreats, and sound healing sessions in village halls at Ruswarp, Lealholm and Aislaby with The Sound Healing Sister
Advertisement
Advertisement
These events will use gongs and percussion to promote deep relaxation and tension release
Nature walks also feature in the programme
Duncombe Park near Helmsley will host a guided walk led by the Mind Over Mountains wellbeing team, while a coastal walk at Ravenscar will include historical insights from a national park archaeologist
Cyclists can take part in the Minds & Miles charity event, which offers three signposted routes for all abilities starting from Sutton Bank
The ride raises funds for the North York Moors Trust
Free cycle track coming to North Yorkshire town for Tour of Britain celebrationsWhy Hollywood star Johnny Depp will be in North Yorkshire this weekendMiddlesbrough launches official bid to be City of Culture 2029
Advertisement
Advertisement
Visitors can also enjoy the Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage, taking place from September 11-13, or a weekend package for walking stretches of the Cleveland Way
For those seeking more immersive experiences, The Tree Retreat at Rosedale will host a midweek Natural Balance Kitchen Retreat, focusing on wellbeing through mindful food preparation
Full event listings, booking information and further details are available online at www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/mindfulmonth
