Digging for History, Finding Wellbeing

When people ask me about my hobbies, they're often surprised to learn that one of my greatest passions outside of healthcare is archaeology. Spending time on archaeological digs might seem a world away from chiropractic and my training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), but for me, the connection is stronger than you might think.

Archaeology offers something increasingly rare in our busy modern lives: the opportunity to slow down, be fully present, and connect with something much bigger than ourselves. Whether I'm carefully trowelling away layers of soil or cleaning a newly discovered artefact, my attention is completely focused on the task in front of me. It's a form of mindfulness that comes naturally, allowing everyday stresses to fade into the background.

This summer, I had the opportunity to spend time excavating at a Roman site in Slimbridge. Last year, I was fortunate enough to take part in a dig at another fascinating Roman site in Oxfordshire. Each excavation brings its own excitement because you never quite know what lies beneath the surface. One of the most rewarding moments is uncovering objects that haven't seen daylight for hundreds, sometimes thousands, of years. Across these digs, I've been lucky enough to discover pieces of Roman pottery along with other fascinating artefacts. Holding something that was once used by someone nearly two millennia ago is a remarkable experience. It serves as a reminder that every object has a story, and every discovery adds another small piece to our understanding of the past.

For me, archaeology is much more than history, it's an important part of looking after my own wellbeing. It encourages patience, curiosity, and resilience. Excavation requires care and precision; you can't rush the process. In many ways, it's a lesson that applies equally well to our own health. Progress, whether recovering from pain, managing stress, or learning new skills, often happens gradually. Small, consistent steps usually achieve far more than trying to force immediate results.

Spending time outdoors is another benefit I value. Fresh air, gentle physical activity, and being surrounded by nature all contribute to feeling refreshed and recharged. It's a welcome contrast to the pace of everyday life and provides valuable space to reflect and reset.

As someone who works with people to improve both physical and mental wellbeing, I'm a firm believer that self-care looks different for everyone. For some, it's exercise or meditation. For others, it's gardening, painting, walking, or spending time with family. For me, archaeology provides that sense of balance. It reminds me that taking time to do something purely because it brings joy is not a luxury, it's an investment in our health.

Sometimes, the greatest discoveries aren't just buried beneath the soil. They're the ones we make about ourselves when we give ourselves permission to slow down, reconnect with our interests, and enjoy the journey. After all, caring for ourselves isn't only about fixing what's wrong, it's also about making time for the things that help us feel truly alive.