Pre-Autumn pampering in Lewes

The Summer holidays are meant to be fun but are often full of tension with the stress of child care of the thought of the impending winter depleting our energy levels.

So now is the time to prepare and pamper yourself before the onslaught of Hallowe'en, Bonfire Night (which falls on a Saturday this year, so will be more hectic than ever) and, of course, Christmas.

Quitting smoking is notoriously difficult, ergo the need for the NHS smokefree telephone line but is not just that expert advice that can help you become fume free, Lewes' numerous chemists also stock nicotine patches and gum. Why not visit St Anne's Pharmacy or H A Baker both are fairly central to town.

For some, treatments such as acupuncture or massage give some welcome relief, why not give The Stillroom a go or Equilibrium (as per the theme of this piece they quote an apt Chinese proverb:

"The time to start digging a well is before you are thirsty")

For many our summer overindulgences will have left us feeling sluggish and may have resulted in a few more inches on the waistband, so a decent workout regime maybe under consideration. Both Waves Leisure Centre and the White Hart Hotel have pools. I have even investigated the Egyptian Dancing classes for something different and enjoyable and Zumba classes are held in nearby Hailsham.

Waves Leisure Centre gets very busy on Saturdays when it is visited by lots of families, the latter's pool is on the small side but quieter. Both venues have gym facilities too. Also, as it is still (apparently) Summer there is the wonderful outdoor Pells Pool, which has been celebrating its 150th anniversary this year and is still going strong.

For a cheap and inspiring option I recommend a good walk on the Downs, a favourite route is up Chapel Hill across to Glynde (finishing off with a lovely pint of Harveys or a less calorific juice) at the Trevor Ams before cheating and catching the train back to Lewes. For exercising the body and resting the mind,

Lewes offers Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates classes (among others). For these go to School Hill Clinic, Precise Pilates and Equilibrium.

And to get kitted out for your sporty ventures whether swimming, walking or stretching Cliffe High Street houses just the shops: Intersport (where you can also show your support for the Rooks by buying the new shirts) and The Outdoor Stop.

So, why not try to rest as the nights close in...and tell lewespeople of your own recommendations...