The recent wet, windy and wild weather we’ve been having has got me thinking about ways to relax and unwind when walking isn’t viable.

That’s not to say I walk every day as I either don’t have time or it might just be a simple lack of energy or inclination. The reason for not going out is rarely because of the weather, living in the UK means that being a fair-weather walker really isn’t an option. Because of this I’ve learnt to enjoy walking in the rain, even if I get caught in a sudden downpour after the initial irritation I can then see the funny side. I’m less keen on windy walks but even those can be fun and it certainly increases the sense of satisfaction when you do get home after braving the elements. I struggle when it’s windy and rainy as that just seems mean, especially when I’m trying to hide in my waterproofs and the wind decides to send the rain directly into my face. That said, even though it’s not ideal it is still doable, however when it’s pouring down and the gusts are up to 40 mph, then it’s a different story. If I don’t need to go out in those conditions then there really isn’t any point as it’s not going to be a pleasant walk and I’ll end up getting increasingly frustrated and irritated. Instead of a soothing stroll, it would be a seething stomp!

So what do I do to relax when I have the time, energy and inclination but the weather gods are conspiring against me? Well it will depend on how much time I have but if I have nothing pressing then I do love reading. If I can’t go out and get lost in my own thoughts then let me escape into someone else’s. The rain battering against the pane and the winds howling all add to the sense of cosiness indoors, I’ll then ask my speaker to play fireplace sounds and the effect is complete.

Another reason for going for a walk is to connect with nature and while active engagement is the most beneficial, even indirectly interacting with nature can help to improve our sense of wellbeing. This means that the simple act of watching a documentary or gazing out of the window at nature is still helpful. I’m fortunate enough to have a garden, although in theory looking out at it should stress me out as the weeds and brambles stare back at me. However if the weather is too inclement for me to go for a walk then I certainly can’t do any gardening, what a shame 😉 While looking out I may spot a soggy, forlorn fox who failed to dodge the downpour or perhaps a poor little bird bravely battling against the blustery breezes. And while I’ll feel sorry for them, watching nature always ends up being a delightful distraction from the rest of the world.

Alternatively I’ll take to social media to have a look at some wildlife and nature photography. I know certain parts of the internet are full of angry trolls posting inflammatory content and people intensely arguing over things that either don’t matter or are nothing to do with them. It can be extremely toxic which is why it is easy to forget that it can also be a source of positivity. Next time you are on social media I would encourage you to do a bit of an audit of the accounts you are following and think about why you are following them. Do they anger you, do they make you doubt yourself or make you feel inferior? If so then stop following them. You wouldn’t invite people who make you feel this way into your house so don’t let them takeover your online channels either. Look for accounts that are either practical, useful & informative or are beautiful, inspiring & uplifting.

Do a digital spring-clean and only follow people and accounts that have a positive impact. I enjoy following nature and wildlife accounts so that if I can’t physically escape to the forest at least I can still enjoy a virtual visit. I’d recommend @forestryengland @woodlandtrust @naturalengland and the @nationaltrust. You might also want to give some photographers a like, Chris Holdsworth’s work is stunning and I’ve also been enjoying the adventures of Putman and Robin. Oh and perhaps you could consider giving @soothing.strolls a follow too? Thank you 🙂

Once you’ve curated your social media accounts, doom-scrolling will be a thing of the past. Then you’ll find that if you can’t go for a Soothing Stroll, you can relax with a Soothing Scroll instead.

Let me know if there are any other accounts you think I should be following or just any other top tips for unwinding when you’re stuck indoors.

That’s how I scroll.

• The best laid plans…
• Hiding in plain sight
• Holiday Strolls
• Something is better than nothing
• National Walking Month