If the pandemic has taught us anything, it's to live in the moment, which is probably why the practice of mindfulness meditation has become so popular. Mindfulness means living in the present moment and can benefit everyone, but particularly those who suffer from stress, anxiety, fatigue, mental exhaustion and depression.

Best of all, it’s something that you can easily put into practice while out walking. So as well as exercising your body, a mindful walk in the country can be good for your mental wellbeing too. 

“When you’re out walking it can be good to stop for a minute or two, sit on a rock or a log, feel the contact of your feet on the ground and the backs of your legs against whatever bumpy, mossy surface you’re on and just listen, coming back to this direct experience of sound whenever your mind drifts,” explains freelance mindfulness teacher Heli Gittins.

Why not have a go at putting mindfulness into practice on one of these trio of walks?

Just click on the following route numbers for print-ready PDFs:

Route 1 - A short, easy walk from Solva (near St Davids, Pembrokeshire) to Y Gribin with its Iron Age fort and fine views over the harbour and surrounding coastline

Route 2 - A fine hike taking in the Cardigan Bay coastline, with superb views north to the Llyn Peninsula and Snowdonia, and the sheltered inland valley of Cwm Peris

Route 3 - An enticing mix of coast and country, starting at Aberffraw, Anglesey, and including the unusually sited medieval St Cwyfan’s Church standing on its own island

Route inaccessible? If you find that any of the routes featured on walesandborders.com has become inaccessible in any way, do let us know so we can alert the necessary authorities on your behalf. You can email the Web Editor at webeditor@borderpublishing.com