Believe it or not, there is such a thing as National Experience Week – and it's happening from 11th to 18th April.

It aims to encourage people to try something new or unusual, and feel the benefits of stepping outside their comfort zone.

The good news is, it's not about throwing yourself out of aeroplanes or living alone in the wilderness (unless, of course, you particularly want to). The purpose of the week is to encourage ordinary people to do things they may not have considered before, or that they have always wanted to try but never had the opportunity.

If you want to try something different around Harrogate, there are all sorts of opportunities right on the doorstep. Why not give some of them a go?

At Rossett School, a new term adult education classes is about to begin. Whether you want to tone up with a yoga class, turn your hand to abstract art, or make a dress in just three days, the programme has something to suit all tastes.

Rossett's adult learning centre is the largest in North Yorkshire and a new set of courses begins every term – one in September after the summer holidays, another in January, and the final after Easter. Melissa Horberry, who is in charge of the programme, is ready to give a friendly welcome to anyone who wants to find out more or sign up to a class. Visit www.rossettschool.co.uk/adult-learning for more details.

If music is more your thing, Experience Week falls at just the right time: top Harrogate choir Rock Up and Sing! is recruiting new members.

With rehearsals taking place most evenings in Harrogate, the family of choirs covers a huge range of musical genres. Their songs include popular hits by U2, Adele, Sam Smith, Michael Jackson, Guns n Roses and more.

The choir members also hold regular concerts and raise lots of money for local charities. Alongside the main adult choirs – all open to anyone who wants to join, without any auditions – Rock Up and Sing! has an events choir for weddings and other special occasions, as well as a youth choir for secondary school aged children.

Not only do members learn to sing better together, they also pick up all sorts of other skills, from team work to performance techniques. The choirs also have a track record of helping members to build confidence and even improve physical and mental health problems.

A taster week is being held from Monday 11th April. To find out more, or book a place at one of the rehearsals, email cath@rockupandsing.com or visit www.rockupandsing.com.

Finally, if you don't feel like learning a new skill or signing up as a singer, why not make a new experience part of your weekly routine? See what it's like to switch your shopping and socialising habits from chains to independent businesses.

It's easy to do in Harrogate, where there are hundreds of fantastic independent shops, restaurants and services just waiting to help you. In fact, you'll find many of them right here on The Best of Harrogate – just have a look at our listings for nights out and food & drink for starters!