Guest Blog by Lizzie Barnett owner of Studio Nine Southport
Let’s talk about something we all crave — feeling good. Not just ‘had-a-decent-night’s-sleep’ good, but that deep, content, life-is-pretty-alright kind of good.
Turns out, there’s a sneaky way to boost our well-being that doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. It’s called sensehacking, and it’s all about using our senses—sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch — to nudge our brain into a happier, calmer state.
And the best part? Southport is an absolute goldmine for this.
The Science Behind Sensehacking
Our senses are like shortcut buttons to our nervous system. The right sensory input can reduce stress, improve mood, and even boost focus. Ever noticed how stepping outside on a sunny morning just feels better? That’s because natural light tells your brain to produce serotonin (hello, happiness) while keeping your circadian rhythm in check. Similarly, the right sounds, smells, and even textures can have a profound impact on how we feel.
So, let’s break it down—how can we harness the power of sensehacking right here in Southport?
1. Soak Up That Natural Light
Living by the coast has its perks, and one of the biggest is access to natural light. Research shows that exposure to daylight—especially in the morning—can regulate mood and energy levels by increasing serotonin and keeping cortisol (the stress hormone) in balance. A simple hack? Swap your morning scroll for a walk down Southport Pier or a coffee outside on Lord Street. Even just ten minutes in natural daylight can work wonders.
2. Mindful Listening: Tune Into the Right Sounds
Sound can instantly shift our mental state. That’s why certain songs give us goosebumps or why the sound of waves can instantly lower stress levels. Southport’s got an abundance of natural ‘sound therapy’—the rhythmic lapping of the tide, birdsong in Botanic Gardens, even the distant hum of conversation at a bustling café. Try this: next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take five minutes to really listen—whether it’s to your favourite song or the simple sounds of life around you. Your brain will thank you.
3. The Power of Familiar Scents
Smell is one of the most powerful memory triggers. A whiff of fresh sea air? Instant nostalgia. The comforting scent of a local bakery? Pure serotonin boost. Research suggests that certain scents—lavender, citrus, vanilla—can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. If you want to bring a bit of Southport’s sensory magic home, light a candle with a scent that reminds you of happy moments here. Bonus points for stopping by the market to pick up fresh flowers—nature’s own aromatherapy.
4. Mindful Eating: Taste Your Way to Calm
Ever eaten something so delicious that you literally stopped mid-chew to appreciate it? That’s mindful eating in action. When we engage fully with the taste and texture of our food, we naturally slow down and reduce stress. Next time you’re treating yourself to a bite of something amazing—whether it’s fish and chips by the Marine Lake or a perfectly brewed coffee—pause, take a deep breath, and truly savour it.
5. The Comfort of Touch
Physical sensation plays a massive role in well-being. Whether it’s the warmth of the sun on your skin, the grounding feeling of sand beneath your feet, or the simple act of wrapping yourself in a cosy blanket—touch has the power to calm and centre us. Southport’s got plenty of ways to engage this sense, from barefoot beach walks to dipping your hands into the cool water of the Marine Lake.
Bringing It All Together
Sensehacking isn’t about making huge changes; it’s about small, intentional tweaks that add up. The beauty of Southport is that so many of these sensory experiences are right on our doorstep—we just need to lean into them. So, next time you’re feeling a little out of sorts, take a moment. Breathe in the sea air, feel the sun on your face, listen to the rhythm of the waves, and let your senses do the heavy lifting.
Who knew feeling better could be as simple as paying attention to what’s already around us?
For more blogs visit www.studionine.uk/studionineblogs/
To read Southport’s Journey visit https://studionine.uk/southports-journey/
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