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MENTAL well-being is not just about depression. It’s about finding joy in life and reasons to smile.
We all have times when that seems harder than it should, so The Border Mail has tried to make it a little bit easier for you.
Short-lived highs like expensive holidays, big nights out or shopping sprees won’t get a mention here — those quick-fixes can cause as much harm as good.
This is all about simple, everyday pleasures.
And just being happy.
We recommend...
SWIMMING
Mungabareena "horseshoe" float: Feeling tired, grumpy or just want to be revitalised? This 500-metre or so river float is just the thing to rekindle your energy and spirit on a hot summer's day.
Jump in and let the current take you past the towering gums and shady willow trees to the other end of the reserve or "horseshoe".
When you finish it is only a short walk back to the start. Repeat as required.
Allans Flat: Allans Flat water hole is all of 15 minutes from Albury-Wodonga and is ideal for a cool break. Sandy beaches, cold water and plenty of shade. While away the summer afternoon. It is deep in the middle so lifejackets are a good idea for the little ones.
Noreuil Park: If you start small and stick to the right, Noreuil Park is the perfect place for first-time floaters because you can stay within standing depth most of the way.
For best results, go for a quick dip, then dry off while lying eyes-shut on the grass under a tree. Just try not to doze off!
RUNNING
Sumsions Gardens (1.26km): This unlikely little vista under the Hume Freeway in Wodonga is the perfect place for beginners to start jogging.
Start with walk-run intervals for two laps of the lake every couple of days and increase the distance you run each time.
When you can jog a full lap - 1.26km - it won't take you long to start running two... then three!
The Rotary Track, Lake Hume (4km): One for those who prefer a view with their runs.
Park your car at the toilets at Bellbridge and follow the track south.
It meanders along the water and offers spectacular Lake Hume scenery that will take your mind off little aches and pains.
The Gateway Run (About 6km): Start at Noreuil Park and run upstream.
This picturesque loop behind Gateway Village mainly follows the course of the Murray River, with a section among the bush and birds.
A great way to leave the world behind you after tough day at work.
WALKING
Monument Hill, Albury: Walking up the front of monument is good exercise that can get your heart rate up.
The best part is when you get to the top and you can hear your pulse thumping in your ears, you get a nice view while you recover and start walking back down again. Best time to do it is at sunrise or sunset.
Beechworth Historic Park: There's lots to explore in this historic part of the North East.
Large granite outcrops in the Gorge area support dry forests where a network of tracks allows walkers to select their own walking routes.
There's about 12 kilometres of track, with entry points to the walk include the Powder Magazine, One Tree Hill, Ingrams Rock and the Gorge Road.
West Albury: At an undulating eight kilometres, this one is proof that walking can be a great workout.
Starting at the private hospital (cnr Pemberton Street and Padman Drive), cross over Padman Drive and walk down the Horseshoe Lagoon dirt trail, over the footbridge.
Pass the Kremur Street boat ramp and join the asphalt bike path that runs along the river.
As you admire the mighty Murray, veer left onto the dirt path behind the Albury Swim Centre, and cross the road to continue the path behind the Botanic Gardens.
Cross over Dean Street and down Thurgoona Street, before turning left into the challenging Pemberton Street.
CYCLING
Sandy Creek Bridge: Get started early on the annual pledge to get active. Set yourself a challenge, and try out the 44-kilometre ride from Wodonga to Old Tallangatta, crossing the new Sandy Creek bridge across Lake Hume.
Falls Creek: Slopes aren't just for skiing. In summer they provide great rides with spectacular scenery.
Rides range from the easy shared trails along the village aqueducts such as the family friendly Historic Huts Ride to more challenging trails that take in Pretty Valley, Howmans Gap and even Mount Beauty.
Chairlifts even operate on selected dates during summer.
Murray To Mountain Rail Trail: There's 116 kilometres of cycling to do on this trail between Wangaratta and Bright but, with several marked entry point, it's just as easily enjoyed over several shorter rides.
The Murray to Mountain trail is broken into three sections: Mountain, Murray and Heritage.
You can find out more at http://www.railtrails.org.au.