We all know intuitively that being in nature can help us feel better.
We probably all have views and places we go to enjoy the beauty of nature and create some calm and wellbeing; a walk in the woods, by the sea, up a hill or in the local park. We know it, and science backs this up. There is research to show that being outside can lower our blood pressure, enhance our immune system and reduce depression. It is a major source of stress reduction.
That’s all very well, but how can we access this key human need when we are in lockdown? We can’t drive to the beach, or meet friends for a walk in a beauty spot, or take children to zoos and farms and outdoor activity centres. Some of us may have a garden or live close to countryside and can get outside in it regularly. Try making that an everyday habit, observing the subtle changes as Mother Nature continues to roll out spring regardless of a pandemic.
But what if that is more difficult than usual, or indeed circumstances restrict it, how can we get more nature now?
What about opening a window, watching the birds, having a five minute pause to walk out of your house to experience the sun, rain or wind on your face. Take photos, look at wildflowers, learn which trees you are looking at, tend your garden or grow seeds. In addition we can surround ourselves with nature, in art, online or on TV, or listening to the sounds of nature on our phones. It all makes us calmer.
Why not try some of these resources and include more nature in your day?
getoutside.ordnancesurvey.co.uk
rspb.org.uk for bird song identification
