Swim, run, ride and row for charity: 10 challenges for 2026 in the UK, Europe and beyond

Climbing, skiing and paddleboarding also feature in our round-up of this year’s charity challenges

My friend has cancer and talks about ending her life. Should I tell her family?

Your friend fears dependency and wants to regain control. Is there someone you can talk to about your own feelings?

Doomscrolling, people pleasing and low-fat foods? Life’s too short! Nine writers on what they won’t bother with this year

Rutger Bregman, Josie Long, Michael Rosen, Meera Sodha and others on what they are no longer wasting their time on

‘They don’t have a nice socket structure’: how to really look after your knees

From squats and lunges to the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, physiotherapists share advice on how to maintain strong knees and avoid pain

From squirrel picnics to penpals, karaoke to crochet: 43 easy ways to lift your spirits

Guardian writers and readers share the simple tricks they use to bring a bit of joy into their lives

The secret to being happy in 2026? It’s far, far simpler than you think …

Stop stressing about self‑improvement or waiting until you’re on top of everything. This year give yourself permission to prioritise pleasure

The secret to a perfect nap: when, where and for how long?

Many athletes and professional musicians swear by getting some shut-eye during the day, but what’s the best way to ensure you don’t end up feeling groggy?

Rise and shine! How not to look tired (even when you’re totally knackered)

From facial massage to wearing the right colours, there are plenty of ways to appear well rested, even when you’re anything but

I taste words. ‘Bob’ is like a milk chocolate Easter egg on my tongue

Monique Todorovski, a clinical administrator, shares her experience of lexical-gustatory synaesthesia

The perfect way to beat the slump: how to tackle mid-afternoon energy dips

In the dead of winter, it can be hard to keep your alertness up when it gets darker. Here are a few good habits that will help you stay productive