Take a Moment - wellness tips for busy people

Every day’s a school day, right? Well it is, but it should be fun too! Learning a new skill or starting a new hobby can be great for your mental well-being and there are plenty of options to do that in Nottingham city centre, whether you have half an hour or all day to spare, take a moment...

Grow plantable seed paper

If you were given an It's in Nottingham seed card while out in the city centre, here's a guide to grow your card.

• Cut the seed paper into small pieces (approximately 1-2 inches) and place them in a container or tray.
• Slowly add water to the container until the paper is soaked.
• After soaking the paper completely, spread it out in the container and cover it with a layer of potting soil.
• Ensure the plant is placed in a sunny spot and watered daily, avoiding both over and under-watering.
• After a few days, you should begin to see the seeds sprouting from the paper.

Enjoy your blooms.

Learn a new skill

Not just here for bathtime, Lush Nottingham run regular events to give you the skills to make bath-bombs, indoor terrariums and even face masks. Deli-cious can teach you how to make amazing high-quality chocolate treats and Nottingham Trent University offers a wide range of Creative Short Courses from their city campus.

Going to a movie is a great way to unwind but did you know that Broadway Cinema also offers a range of courses which explore filmmaking and illuminate the magic of cinema?

If you like art then check out the free 20-minute 12.30 art talks every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday lunchtime at Nottingham Contemporary.

Go for a swim (or relax in a spa)

One of the biggest benefits of swimming is that it works your entire body, from head to toe, increasing your heart rate without stressing your body, toning muscles and building both strength and endurance. Get your trunks on and check out Victoria Leisure Centre or, if you’re not quite ready for the plunge, how about a relaxing spa visit to de-stress and calm your mind?

The Hilton Hotel near Victoria Centre offer a fully stocked gym and spa, right in the heart of Nottingham. Over on Wollaton Street is The Urban Rooms spa, located inside the Crowne Plaza Hotel. For a bit of bliss on a long lunch break, both of these facilities are open to the public, not just to guests of the hotels.

Try a fitness class – for free

If you’re ready for exercise, but don’t want to commit to a full gym package just yet, a free fitness class could be what you’re looking for. Sweaty Betty, just off Old Market Square, is a great place to grab some fashionable women's sport and exercise clothing and they also offer free in-store classes with local fitness professionals. Pop into the store to speak to a member of the team or visit the website.

Manage your health

Passionate about helping people access health and wellness products, Holland & Barrett also has qualified experts on hand to offer advice. Check out the branch on Clumber Street or in the Victoria Centre for a huge range of free support for mental health and menopause support from leading menopause campaigners, Menopause Mandate.

Swap some screen-time for a book

Now we know you’re reading this on a screen but did you know that too much screen time can lead to eyesight and sleeping problems, chronic neck and back pain, and even depression, and anxiety?

Reading a book or magazine is an enjoyable way to reduce daily stresses and give you a digital detox so why not browse the great selection of books at Waterstones on Bridlesmith Gate, Bromley House Library, Five Leaves, Forbidden Planet, HMV, Page 45, Rough Trade, The Works or WH Smith.

Beat the streets

Lunch breaks, and even the daily commute, are a great time to get the miles in, however, you like to do it. Right on the edge of the city centre we’ve got the Nottingham and Beeston Canal which has been mapped out by The Canal and River Trust for walkers, runners or cyclists.

Spending time outside and moving around can help improve our mood, lower stress, and make us feel more relaxed.

There are a number of walking routes that can help you discover your local area, landmarks and heritage, whilst boosting your physical and mental health.

Did we mention running? Get the right kit, and great free advice from Up and Running in Exchange Arcade and work out what trainers would be right for you. Show off your new shoes at their weekly running group which meets every Monday at 6.30pm.

Cycling is so much cooler now the Chopper is back but even if you aren’t having a wave of nostalgia, the selection of pedal and e-bikes at Evans Cycles are sure to get you in the saddle again, and relive those carefree days of youth, however long ago it was!