In this three-minute read, we look at ways to keep your body and
mind active in October.

1, Plant some bulbs

Bulbs are easy to plant, can go in
either the ground or pots, require virtually no looking after and pack a
colourful punch. What’s not to like? Plant daffodils, tulips and hyacinths for spring blooms and alliums and lilies for
summer flowers.

2, Play conkers

Every October, thousands of people flock to the village of
Southwick in Northamptonshire to partake in that most British of pastimes: the
thwacking of horse chestnuts. We are, of course, talking about the World Conker
Championships which, due to Covid-19, have been cancelled this year. Nevermind,
use your time wisely and get training for next year’s event.

3, Find a new nature trail

It’s eight months since the word ‘coronavirus’ entered our lexicon
so no wonder we all feel a touch frazzled. Thankfully, walking in nature can
have a restorative effect on our mental health and reduce anxiety and
depression. There are some lovely parks and woodlands in the KENT downs.
Go for a walk in one of these beauty spots and feel reinvigorated.

4, Get drawing

The world’s largest drawing event, The Big Draw, takes place
throughout October. It’s an initiative designed to encourage people of all ages
to enjoy the simplicity of putting pencil (or pen, crayon or pastel) to paper. The
theme this year is ‘A Climate of Change’. Let your imagination run free.

5, Start a nature journal

There’s a pretty little corner of the internet dedicated to nature
journalling; the process of regularly drawing and writing about what you see in
your natural surroundings. It’s a great way (especially for kids) to slow down
and observe the changing world around us. Check out this guide from the Natural
History Museum on starting a nature journal.

6, Move in a new way

If you spend your days sitting at a desk (or kitchen table)
hunched over a laptop, then it’s time to get some of those neglected muscles
moving. Discover the joys of doing a downward dog (yoga), mastering table top (Pilates)
or getting better acquainted with your yin and yang (Tai Chi). Your body, mind
and soul will say namaste (that’s thanks in yoga speak BTW).

7, Wine tasting online

Apparently, some of us have been (ahem) drinking more at home in
recent months. If you veer towards the vino, then why not learn more about what
it is you’re imbibing. A host of companies now offer online wine tasting
sessions. They deliver a few bottles to your door, and then in a Zoom session a
wine expert talks you through the finer details of the Cab Sav, or Sav Blanc,
that you’re drinking.

8, Bake something from GBBO

Try to execute one of the really tough challenges that Paul and
Prue gleefully set for Great British Bake Off contestants, including our very
own Laura Adlington from Halling! Step out of your kitchen comfort zone and get
rough with the puff, tinker with a
tarte au citron or attempt toblitz a Schichttorte.

9, Learn a
language

Perhaps you learnt a language at secondary school and haven’t used
it since. Or maybe you have plans to hotfoot it to an exotic location when we
are (eventually) done with Covid-19. Either way, why not use one of the many
apps available (most with a free version) to brush up on your language skills.

Here at CWB Property, we know 2020 has been
an unusual year, but we’re determined to keep calm, keep active and keep people
moving homes successfully.