Getting back to basics. Photo: Getty Images
New year, new you. Now is the time to practise gratitude and give yourself permission to slow down, writes Deanna Copland.

Deanna Copland

It’s not easy, but practising gratitude is the first step to living more mindfully. In a world inundated with updates, videos, stories, oversharing and overconnectedness, many are yearning to retreat.

Burnout or adrenal depletion is on the rise.

Getting out into nature is one of the most valuable things we can do to reconnect.

Having a picnic beside the lake or roughing it for a few days camping are memorable experiences that really nourish our nervous systems and balance our health. Just going back to basics in a busy world.

Camping checklist

What to take:

  • Pack of cards/ board games
  • A good book
  • Sun hat
  • Comfortable chairs
  • Pillow from home
  • Jandals for the communal showers
  • Non-toxic insect repellent
  • Homemade dressing

What to leave behind:

  • Stress and worries
  • Ego
  • Phone and alarm clock

 

Photo: Getty Images
Dijon honey salad dressing

This dressing is a nutritious addition to a camping holiday for adding a flavour hit to simple, fresh ingredients.

Ingredients
2 Tbsp high-quality Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
juice of 1 small lemon
2 Tbsp water
½ tsp cracked pepper
pinch mineral salt
½ tsp fresh dill
½ tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 stem lavender flowers, stem discarded

Method
Add all the ingredients to a mason jar, screw on the lid and shake just before serving. Drizzle over a fresh garden salad, roast vegetables or fresh fish.

Make ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to one week.