Health and wellbeing

A Sensory Experience

Being out in nature is a multisensory experience. We can simultaneously feel the soft brush of long grass against our legs, as we watch bees buzz between fragrant lavender sprigs. Perhaps you are accompanied by a soundtrack of rushing water, or a chorus of birdsong, all whilst you munch on tart, freshly-picked blackberries.

The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, also known as forest bathing, encourages spending time in a forest or woodland and focusing on engaging your senses. It’s been shown to improve positive feelings, whilst easing negatives ones.

Creativity’s Muse

Nature can inspire and nurture creativity, allowing us to express ourselves more freely. Whether it’s through painting, writing, photography, or any other artistic outlet, nature provides the ultimate muse. Creativity decreases stress and also improves our wellbeing providing us with the opportunity to express our individuality

It may even be that what nature has inspired you to create goes on to provide joy for others, and encourages them to explore nature too.

Getting Active

Nature also provides us with the space and opportunity for physical activity, which benefits our mental health just as much as our physical. This can be something as simple as a leisurely walk around a local park. For something more adventurous, wild swimming, mountaineering, kayaking and canoeing, and rock climbing are all activities that can be enjoyed within nature.

Exercise and physical activity reduces the risk of depression and anxiety, and doing so in green spaces provides even greater benefits to our physical and mental health. Exercising outdoors gives us an added boost compared with indoor activity, and decreases feelings of sadness and anger.

Gardening

Gardening is a past-time enjoyed by many people, and allows for a tranquil escape within nature. Spending time working in your garden and making the space a joint haven for yourself and the natural world, is a win for both your health and wellbeing, and for wildlife.

There’s also the opportunity to nurture and grow your own vegetables and herbs. Providing for yourself and becoming partially self-sufficient brings a real sense of achievement, which in turn lifts your mental wellbeing.

Shropshire Wildlife Trust has run projects for many years to give people opportunities to grow their relationship with nature and to find out how it can nourish their mental health.

Weekly nature reserve work parties are open to anyone but all our volunteers tell of the physical and mental health benefits of working outdoors with friendly and supportive colleagues.

Mental ill health affects all ages. It's estimated that 1 in 10 children and young people suffer. Our family activities are simple and fun so they can be continued at home. We also run initiatives specifically aimed at young adults. However you're feeling, there's always room to improve your mental wellbeing with a little help from nature.