SLOW LIVING IN SOUTHSEA

Word by Elly Hughes

The act of ‘slow living’ has become a popular topic of conversation in recent months.

It highlights the simple habits we can adopt to enjoy a calmer, more mindful lifestyle, in turn alleviating some of the pressures that come hand-in-hand with a fast-paced world.

It’s all about embracing the little pockets of peace away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Here are a few ways you can live slower in Southsea this summer:

The coast with the most

It’s no secret that sea air can do wonderful things for us humans; from long walks along the shoreline, to basking in the sunshine with a good book (or the latest issue of Southsea Lifestyle Magazine!).

You can even rent a bicycle and take advantage of the fantastic cycle paths adjacent to the promenade.

Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Eastney, or wander up to Southsea Castle, steeped in Tudor history, with routes to Old Portsmouth, offering a stunning backdrop of the Solent.

Be kind to your body and mind

Gentle exercise can be a fantastic way of promoting mindfulness and calm; whether you’re just spending five minutes stretching in your garden, or going for a run in one of the many green spaces across the town.

There are plenty of local groups that organise a number of regular activities; from paddleboarding and sea swimming, to outdoor fitness classes and garden yoga; so you can try something new and meet like-minded people at the same time.

Get creative

Engaging in arts and crafts can be a great way of taking some time to yourself, whilst experimenting with hobbies that you may not have considered before.

There are plenty of creative workshops hosted across Southsea, from painting and pottery, to photography and writing groups, there’s even several book clubs, so if you want to dabble in something different, you won’t be short on choice.

Choose nutrition

Did you know that eating local honey is a great way to combat hayfever? This is just one of many examples showcasing the power of food.

We are fortunate enough to have an abundance of fantastic restaurants, cafes, coffee shops and markets dotted across Southsea, with a wide range of specialties, including fantastic plant-based eateries.