Switching off sounds simple until you actually try to do it. Between work, family and the general noise of daily life, "just relax" can feel like one more thing on the to-do list. The good news: you don't need a weekend retreat or a big lifestyle change — just one small, low-pressure activity that gives your mind somewhere else to go for a while. This Wellness Week, 21–27 September, is the perfect excuse to try one. Here are five ways to do exactly that — some are on this week only, others you can come back to any day of the year.
Try a Sound Bath
Let someone else do the relaxing for you. A Sound Bath is a meditative experience using sound and vibration from instruments like singing bowls and gongs to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and support emotional wellbeing — you simply stay still and listen throughout. Running at Thurso Leisure Centre. Tue 22 Sept, 20:00–20:45.
Head outdoors with the Countryside Rangers
Sometimes the best way to switch off is to step outside. Join a slow, guided walk through ancient woodland — like Discovering Dunain Woods, exploring hidden pathways and spotting wildlife along the way — or trade the to-do list for open sky at the Red Point Beach Clean: a few unhurried hours on the coast with nothing to do but pick litter, watch the waves and let your mind go quiet. Come for as long as you like, and bring a picnic if you fancy staying on afterwards. Free, no need to book. Wet weather gear, wellies and a water bottle recommended; all equipment provided. Tue 22 Sept, 10:30–13:30, meet at the end of the road at Red Point.
Browse all Countryside Ranger wellness week events to find one that suits you.
Get lost in a book
Here's the thing about libraries — they're not just for Wellness Week. Every High Life Highland library is free to join, any day of the year, with a quiet corner and a book waiting whenever you need one. This week, many of our libraries have extra events on too, from relaxation zones to craft groups, so it's a good moment to remember what's on your doorstep all year round.
See what's on at your library this wellness week, or explore our libraries any time.
Get creative
There's something quietly calming about making things with your hands, and there are a few ways to try it this week. Join Craft Social at Culloden Library: bring along your latest craft project (knitting, sewing, embroidery, painting — all crafts welcome) and get some work done while enjoying a cup of tea and some friendly chat. Not a crafter? Come along anyway for the sociability. Free, drop in. Mon 21 Sept, 10:30–12:00, Adults.
Or mark A Celebration of the Invernessiana Project — presentations, displays and hands-on craft activities celebrating local heritage and community achievements, with refreshments and a chance to connect with others - free, drop in. (Thu 24 Sept, 15:00–17:00, open to all).
For something more reflective, Words of Hope brings an evening of stories, reflection and creativity to Fort William Library - free, drop in. (Thu 24 Sep, 18.00 - 19.30, open to all)
Trace your own story with family history research
Curious where you come from? Our Family History for Beginners course at the Highland Archive and Registration Centre is a gentle introduction to tracing your own family tree, held in person over four weeks (starting Fri 25 Sept, 10:00–12:00, 16+; £40 for HLH members / £48 non-members).
You don't need to do all five — pick the one that appeals most and try it this week. A quieter mind is still making life better, even if nobody else can see it.
Find your moment to pause
Discover the activities on at High Life Highland this wellness week
