Behind the Hoop | Finding Calm
In the rush of everyday life, making time for yourself matters. A simple holiday walk by the sea has transformed how I see things.
I’ve been on holiday in Bournemouth over the half-term break, and it’s been such a treat to spend time by the sea. There’s something so calming about the sound of the waves and the freshness of the coastal air - it’s the perfect escape from the hustle of everyday life.
My husband, our dog, and I began our walk at Alum Chine Beach - a stunning Blue Flag beach that never fails to impress. The beauty there is simply breathtaking. The way the golden sand, deep blue sea, and endless sky blend together feels like something out of a painting - one of those places you could stand and admire for hours.
Walking along the promenade is an easy, flat stroll with wide, accessible pathways - perfect for all ages and abilities. It’s a popular spot, and on this sunny, surprisingly warm October day, the beach was full of life. Families were building sandcastles, playing games, and a few brave souls even ventured into the sea for a very refreshing splash.
“The seaside is pure joy and wonder - the sounds, the scents, the endless sense of space. It carries a magic all its own.”
We carried on towards Sandbanks, passing the brightly coloured beach huts with their cheerful doors - each one a little haven of seaside charm. People sat outside them, sipping tea and watching the world go by. We stopped to enjoy a warm drink of our own, sitting on a bench overlooking the water, watching kite surfers glide effortlessly across the calm sea. Time seemed to slow down, allowing us to savour every detail of the scene before us.
We left the promenade and made our way along the shoreline. The sea was calm and the tide was out, making for an easy, peaceful walk. Our dog, though not keen on getting wet, trotted happily beside us - her tail wagging, nose to the ground, greeting other dogs and following every new scent. The sunlight glistened on the gentle waves, turning the sea into a sheet of silver and blue. When I see this, it always makes me think mermaids are real! Though this stretch of coast can often be windy, it was still and serene.
The walk gave me space to breathe and think, chatting happily with my husband while watching our dog run freely along the shore. The open space gave us time to unwind, catch up, and truly reconnect after a busy week with the children. Walking together, just the two of us, felt simple yet special - a chance to share ideas, laugh together, and talk about plans for the days ahead.
It also gave me some personal time to think about Makers Mob UK and consider the next steps - which was really exciting. It felt wonderful to have space to focus on my creativity and reflect on how I’d like to evolve my business offering. There’s more news to come on that soon, but I was so grateful for the chance to pause, process, and reconnect - both with myself and with my husband.
“The sea reminds us to slow down, breathe deeply and to dream a little bigger.”
By the end of the day, we walked around 12 kilometres, with a lovely break for lunch in Sandbanks. It’s such a pretty little town, full of inviting bars and restaurants. We chose Lazy Jacks Restaurant and enjoyed a yummy meal before setting off again. The walk back felt calmer somehow - perhaps our minds were more at ease - and the quieter pace gave us time for reflection and a deeper appreciation of the beauty all around us.
Walking by the sea is always inspiring for me. I took so much from that walk - grateful for the time and space to think, the beauty of the coast, and the wonderful company. I didn’t even complain about the walk back up the hill to our holiday home! That seaside walk reminded me how creativity often comes from stillness - from those quiet, open moments when the world feels a little wider and life a little simpler.
Kate Khullar | @makersmob.uk
Kate is the founder of Makers Mob UK and loves making, creating and finding happiness through craft.
