10 Healthy Ways to Spend Your Bank Holiday

Activities to recharge and revitalise your mind and body

Any bank holiday is a wonderful opportunity to rejuvenate, unwind and indulge in some well-deserved leisure time and self-care.

Here are 10 healthy ways to fully embrace the extended weekend while nurturing your body and mind.

Enjoy a picnic in the sunshine

What better way to enjoy the beautiful spring weather than with a picnic in the park. Pack a basket full of nutritious treats such as fresh fruits, crisp vegetables (cucumber, celery, peppers) with hummus and refreshing drinks like homemade lemonade, kombucha or iced herbal tea. Spread out a blanket and bask in the natural sunlight while enjoying some quality time with your loved ones.

Go for a scenic hike

Get your body moving and take in some breathtaking scenery by going for a hike. Whether it’s a local nature trail or a more challenging mountain climb, spending time outdoors in nature is an excellent way to uplift your mood and increase your energy levels. Don’t forget to bring some energy-boosting snacks like nuts and seeds or bliss balls and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Host a healthy BBQ

Gather friends and family for a BBQ that’s as nourishing as it is delightful. Grill lean proteins like organic chicken or fish, and serve up delicious salads and grilled vegetables. Keep your beverages light and refreshing with homemade fruit-infused water or a revitalising glass of iced infusion.

Get out on your bike

Venture into the fresh air and explore your local surroundings on a bike ride. Whether it’s a leisurely ride through town or an adventurous mountain biking trail, cycling offers a fun and healthful way to exercise while enjoying the great outdoors.

Play a game of frisbee

Get your friends together for a game of frisbee in the park. It’s a fun and relaxed activity that combines exercise and quality time with loved ones. Plus, it’s a great way to improve your hand-eye coordination skills!

Visit a farmer’s market

Support your local community by visiting a vibrant farmer’s market. Indulge in an array of fresh fruits and vegetables while sampling wholesome snacks like homemade granola or succulent, flavour-packed organic strawberries. By choosing local produce, you’re not only supporting farmers but also make healthy food choices.

Hold an entertaining game night

Invite friends over for a thrilling game night filled with laughter and camaraderie. It’s a fun and stress-free way to bond with your buddies that won’t cost the earth. Consider serving healthy alternatives like multi-seed chickpea crackers and homemade popcorn or kale chips, instead of highly processed, shop-bought snacks.

Go for a refreshing swim

Swimming is a fantastic low-impact, full-body workout that is gentle on the joints. Take a refreshing dip in a nearby lake or outdoor pool to beat the heat and stay active. The combination of water, fresh air and the natural surroundings promotes relaxation and helps alleviate tension.

Learn a new skill

Learning a new skill over the bank holiday can be a rewarding and fulfilling way to spend your time. Experiment with healthy new recipes or try your hand at baking delicious treats. Unleash your creativity and explore the world of painting, drawing or photography. Take a mini health and well-being course to gain valuable knowledge and improve your health.

Have a lazy day in the garden

Sometimes, the best way to spend a bank holiday is by simply doing nothing at all. Enjoy a lazy day in the garden, absorbing the natural sunlight, and indulging in a captivating book. Alternatively, you could use the opportunity to tend to your garden and plant those long-awaited bulbs.

What if it rains?

If the rain decides to make an appearance (as it often does with the unpredictable UK weather), there are still plenty of enjoyable options to make the most of your bank holiday. You could embrace the rain, put on your raincoat and head outdoors for a refreshing walk or bike ride. Alternatively, you could:

Host a day of crafts to bring out your artistic side. Get creative with crafting projects that can be done indoors – it’s a great way to express yourself and have fun.

Pamper yourself by transforming your home into a mini spa and indulging in some self-care. Treat yourself to a relaxing bath, apply a face mask, and unwind with soothing music.

Get organised. Use the rainy day to tackle those tasks you’ve been putting off. Sort through paperwork, declutter cupboards or tackle DIY projects. Being organised can bring a sense of accomplishment and reduce stress.

Batch cooking and meal prep. Take advantage of the extra time indoors to prepare nutritious meals for the week ahead. Preparing and freezing meals makes it easier to maintain a healthy eating routine when you’re busy.

Prioritise your well-being

Any bank holiday offers plenty of opportunities to prioritise your well-being while enjoying quality time with loved ones or indulging in some much-needed self-care. With a little intention and planning, you can transform this long weekend into a healthy and memorable experience that nurtures your body and mind. So, seize the moment and make it truly good for you!