Mindful Steps: Walking from Ventnor to Steephill Cove

Yesterday’s walk from Ventnor seafront to the picturesque Steephill Cove was nothing short of magical. The weather was on our side – sunny, warm, and filled with the kind of light that lifts your spirits before your day has even begun. And what made it even more special? We were joined by six lovely new ladies – each bringing their own energy and stories, adding to the ever-growing community of the IOW Adventure Girls UK.

As we walked the coastal path, the ocean shimmering beside us, laughter and conversation flowed as easily as the waves below. But this wasn’t just any walk. This week is Mental Health Awareness Week, and in recognition of that, we decided to slow things down and make this walk a little more mindful.

Taking time to be present in nature – to really feel the sun on our skin, hear the birdsong, and simply breathe – reminded us just how powerful walking can be for our mental wellbeing. It’s not just the steps we take, but the space we create for ourselves and each other along the way. Nature has a beautiful way of grounding us, and being part of a supportive group makes the journey even more meaningful.

As part of our mindful walk, we each created some beautiful stones with gentle reminders on them: Take a moment. Take a breath. Take what you need.

These stones have been left along the route as little tokens of encouragement – small messages for anyone who may need a boost. If you come across one, you’re more than welcome to take it with you or leave it for someone else who might need it that day. Either way, we hope they bring a moment of peace and connection.

If you do find one, give us a tag on Instagram @iowadventuregirlsuk – we’d love to see where they end up.

Mental health matters, every week of the year. But this week especially, let’s remember how something as simple as a walk, a smile, or a kind word can make a big difference. We're so grateful for this community and the safe, supportive space it continues to grow into. Until the next adventure!