Beautiful Beaches for Mindfulness on the Northumberland Coast
Do you want to start this year by blowing away the cobwebs along with some
negative emotions? Well, the combination of mindfulness meditation and our beautiful Northumbria coastline is the perfect way to do it! We are blessed in this county to have stretches of glorious beach and fresh North Sea winds to help us
relax and rejuvenate.
Research has shown mindfulness to be associated with psychological wellbeing
and effective at reducing fear, anxiety, worry and other negative emotions. [1] But it doesn’t have to be done sitting cross-legged with jingly music in the background.
Taking a walk along a beach can help you access this calming headspace easily.
That’s because being close to water can induce a meditative state which can help us
be calmer, healthier, happier and more creative. [2]
There is no equipment needed for this! Just you and your body. Gently take a walk across the sands or stand and watch the waves roll in and out. Breathe in the fresh air, and let thoughts come and go. Don’t try to judge them or use them. Just be in the
moment and let yourself immerse into this state of zen-like being.
Any of these beautiful beaches will be a perfect setting:
1. Cresswell Beach
Recognized as one of the best beaches on the Northumberland coast and yet is mostly quiet and unspoilt. The beach seems to be endless at low tide. Practically, there is parking close to the beach, and dogs are allowed, so you could even take your four-legged friend for company. A lovely place in which to feel that meditative
calm inside yourself. [3]
2. Tynemouth Longsands
A Blue Flag award-winning beach with a mile of golden sand, dunes, rocks, and
cliffs. Unsurprisingly, it’s popular, especially with surfers, but for those who want mindfulness with the security of others around, this could be a great choice. On a beach this vast, you can still find your peace, but also be less isolated. There are seasonal restrictions on dogs, and it is only a short walk from two Metro stations. [4]
3. Alnmouth Beaches
Alnmouth is a picturesque village with cute country cottages, reminiscent of a
bygone era. There are three beach areas you can choose from, including the main
beach which has parking on the seafront but can be busy with families in summer.
There is also a hidden beach south of the estuary which is more secluded and
peaceful and very popular with dog walkers (don’t let your dog swim in the river
though as it has hidden dangers). [5 and 6]
4. Druridge Bay
This is a great choice if you prefer to experience your mindfulness in a rugged
setting rather than sandy beaches. Druridge Bay, south of Amble, is quieter than other beaches and accessed through extensive dunes. There you will find seven miles of beach, with wild grasses on one side of you and the fresh North Sea on the other. For natural beauty with a hint of wildness, head here. [7]
5. The Links Beach on Lindisfarne
Could anywhere be more perfect for mindfulness than a beach on Lindisfarne, also
known as the Hold Island? This place has an atmosphere all of its own, with its history and haunting beauty. The Links Beach, on the north coast, is the most exposed beach and you can walk for miles when the tide is out. The solitude of the area allows a huge variety of wildlife to flourish here. So, enjoy on your walk the sights of wildfowl, wading birds, geese and grey seals, depending on the season.
[7&8]
There are many reasons why being at the beach can help you feel better and using mindfulness in this setting enhances your calm state of mind. Mindfulness is just one technique that can help you navigate the pressures of life. Here at My Family Psychologist we can help tailor our expert help to your difficulties, whatever the cause. Call Luisa on 07801 079 555 or email luisa@myfamilypsychologist.com for a confidential chat.
References
1. Keng, S. L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on
psychological health: a review of empirical studies. Clinical psychology
review, 31(6), 1041–1056. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2011.04.006
2. https://qz.com/1347904/blue-mind-science-proves-the-health-benefits-of-being-by-water
3. https://www.thebeachguide.co.uk/north-east-england/northumberland/cresswell.htm
4. https://newcastlegateshead.com/business-directory/things-to-do/tynemouth-longsands
5. http://www.yournorthumberland.co.uk/area-guides/alnmouth
6. https://www.cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk/guides/guide-alnmouth#beaches
7. https://www.cottagesinnorthumberland.co.uk/guides/best-beaches-northumberland
8. https://www.visitnorthumberland.com/explore/destinations/islands/holy-island