Heard of mindfulness, but unsure what it is?
Broadly speaking, mindfulness is about having awareness of ourselves and the world around us in the present moment. So often our mind is caught up worrying – or chewing over things that can create stress, anxiety and can even affect our physical health.
Paying attention to the small things - such as sensing the air around you, feeling the ground beneath your feet, or noticing your breath as you move, can interrupt the ‘autopilot’, give a fresh perspective on life and slow our usual thought patterns. You can be mindful during activity and at rest, and it’s even more effective if done outdoors, as nature has an additional calming effect on the brain.
September is often seen as a month to take stock and start anew, a second new year if you like, so this is a good excuse to breathe and reboot as we welcome in the autumn. Every September we get together with local businesses to create a month long mindfulness themed events programme, to help you de-stress and reconnect whilst surrounded by the beautiful landscapes within the North York Moors National Park.
Read our latest blog on how to embrace the tranquillity of the North York Moors during Mindful Month, here.
Travel and adventure writers Fay and Matt Doyle, from This Expansive Adventure recently visited the North York Moors. They spent two days discovering how to reconnect, refresh, and focus on slow travel and wellbeing in the National Park. Read their mindfulness blog here.
Read our latest press release to explore all of the new ways to unwind in nature during September's Mindful Month, here.
Mindful Month - throughout September
Each September we invite you to celebrate Mindful Month with us, to feel invigorated in nature with a number of events and activities that will rejuvenate your spirits.
Applications are now open to run an event for Mindful Month. If you would like to host an event for 2026, please complete our form: Apply for Mindful Month.
Events for Mindful Month 2026
Watercolour & Ink Painting Workshop - Saturday 5 September
Join Ione Harrison in this mindful and creative workshop to explore ways of creating paintings that feel vibrant, atmospheric, and expressive. Suitable for those with some painting experience in any medium, the day invites you to slow down, experiment, and connect with the joy of playful exploration. Through flowing watercolour and inspiring ink techniques, you’ll be encouraged to let go of perfection, embrace curiosity, and enjoy the calming, creative process.
Tickets: £105
Welburn Business Park, YO60 7EP
Book your place by visiting Ione Harrison Art or emailing ioneharrisonart@gmail.com.
Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage - Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September
For one special weekend, the charming seaside village of Staithes transforms into a giant, walkable gallery, with cottages, studios and community spaces opening their doors to showcase artists, sculptors and creatives. Wander the higgledy-piggledy streets down to the sea, enjoy live music filling the alleys and discover the rich fishing heritage of Staithes through walks, talks and films throughout the weekend.
Tickets: Free
Staithes
Find out more by visiting Staithes Festival of Arts & Heritage's website.
Walk the Cleveland Way retreat - Wednesday 30 September to Friday 2 October
A chance to reconnect with nature and explore the stunning North York Moors and coast. Pretty Gritty will guide you on three hikes totalling approximately 23 miles. You will cover various sections of the Cleveland Way long distance walking route, including the iconic Roseberry Topping, Captain Cook's Monument, and the incredible views along the coastal path between Saltburn-by-the-Sea and Staithes. Breakfast and evening meals are included, and you will stay at the luxury accommodation, the Old Town Hall, in Guisborough.
Tickets: £380
The Old Town Hall, TS14 6BG
Book your place by visiting Pretty Gritty, calling 07831904715 or emailing info@prettygritty.co.uk.
Want to know how your business can get involved in our Mindful Month programme?
Email tourism@northyorkmoors.org.uk and include the subject line 'Mindful Month' and a member of our marketing team will get in touch to discuss how you can get involved in our 2026 Mindful Month!
Don't forget to sign up to the North York Moors Tourism Network to be the first in the know of our events, receive free marketing advice and gain the opportunity to join our activity friendly schemes.