A Calming List of Things to Do in May: 15 Soul-Nourishing Ideas for Slow Living This Spring

As May rolls in, it brings with it longer days, blooming wildflowers, and a renewed sense of calm. It's the perfect time to step away from screens, lean into slower rhythms, and reconnect with the simple joys of life. If you're searching for peaceful things to do in May, whether to boost your mood or embrace the season, this list is your gentle guide to intentional living.

Here are 15 calming things to do this May that will soothe your soul, bring joy to your days, and help you appreciate the little things.

1. Paint Your Front Door a Fresh New Colour

Want to give your home instant kerb appeal? Painting your front door is a low-effort, high-reward project. Choose a colour that lifts your spirits, maybe a sunny yellow, calming sage, or classic coastal blue. It’s a mindful activity that adds personality to your space and signals a fresh start for the season.

2. Have a Picnic in a Random Spot

Whether it's a hidden corner of your local park, a hilltop field, or your own garden, picnics are one of the easiest ways to enjoy May’s warmer weather. Pack up some homemade treats, a good book, and a blanket, and let your worries drift away on the breeze.

3. Plant Some Herbs in Cute Little Pots

Even if you don’t have a garden, windowsill herb pots can bring the outdoors in. Start with easy-grow favourites like basil, mint, or thyme. They’ll add flavour to your meals and fragrance to your kitchen, plus, tending to plants is proven to reduce stress.

4. Plan a Walk With a Pub Lunch Halfway Through

This is your sign to explore a new walking trail. Choose a circular route that includes a cosy country pub or café halfway through, bonus points for scenic views and a pint of something cold.

5. Bake Some Madeleines to Go With Your Afternoon Tea

These delicate French sponge cakes are perfect for spring. Light, lemony, and best served with a pot of tea, madeleines are an easy baking win that feel like a hug in pastry form.

6. Forage Wild Garlic and Make Your Own Pesto

May is peak wild garlic season in the UK. Look for its long green leaves and white flowers in shady woodlands. Blend with olive oil, nuts, and Parmesan to create a fresh, punchy pesto. (Always forage responsibly and check local guidelines.)

7. Make a Playlist of Your Favourite Sunshine Songs

Create your own soundtrack to May. Think breezy acoustic tunes, feel-good throwbacks, or anything that reminds you of sunshine on your skin. Press play and let it lift your spirits.

8. Get Up Early to Visit a Carboot Near You

Treasure hunting at dawn? Yes, please. Carboot sales are bursting with vintage gems, homeware finds, and quirky bargains this time of year. Go early for the best picks, and bring small change!

9. Visit a Local Farmers’ Market and Pick Up Fresh Produce

Support local growers and fill your basket with seasonal goodies. Think rhubarb, asparagus, new potatoes, and strawberries. Eating in season not only tastes better, it’s better for the planet too.

10. Visit a New Coffee Shop

Change your routine by exploring a café you’ve never been to before. Sip your flat white slowly, try a new pastry, and maybe strike up a chat with the barista. You never know what, or who, you’ll discover.

11. Forage Some Elderflower for a Spring Cordial

Elderflower season starts in May, and making your own cordial is a lovely way to preserve spring in a bottle. Pair with sparkling water, gin, or drizzle over cakes for a floral twist.

12. Take an Early Morning Walk and Watch the Sunrise

There’s magic in May mornings. Get outside while the world is still quiet and let the light unfold slowly around you. Birds singing, dew on the grass, and no notifications, pure bliss.

13. Have No Plans and Take 2 Minutes to Listen to the Birds

Mindfulness doesn’t need to be complicated. Step outside, pause, breathe, and just listen. Birdsong is nature’s therapy, and it’s completely free.

14. Take a Flask and a Blanket to the Beach

Wrap up, head to the coast, and breathe in that salty sea air. Hot drinks taste better with a sea view, and the sound of waves is scientifically proven to calm your nervous system.

Why May Is the Perfect Month to Slow Down

May sits in that sweet spot between spring and summer, making it ideal for simple pleasures, spontaneous adventures, and fresh starts. Whether you're wild garlic foraging or sipping tea in the sunshine, taking time to slow down helps reduce stress, boost creativity, and deepen your connection to nature.

These calming May activities are perfect for anyone craving more peace, presence, and purpose. Bookmark this list, share it with a friend, and start ticking them off. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.

Looking for more seasonal inspiration? Follow along @llioangharad on Instagram for colourful, conscious living from Wales.