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Improve your wellbeing

Stress can have serious impacts on our health, and it’s far more common than you think. Around 80% of the British public report frequent work-related stress, and with stress-related illness costing the NHS about £8 billion annually. Stress can also has serious knock-on impacts, with around half of us who feel stressed over-eating to cope, and a quarter increasing their alcohol consumption.

We all want to be happier and healthier, and we can improve our mental and physical health by engaging in nature-based activities. Nature is proven to have mental health benefits, and this was demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic when 45% of us reported using nature and green spaces to cope with stress (Nature and mental health – Mental Health Foundation). Spending time in nature can improve your mental and physical health, and it normally costs nothing.

One of the five pillars of a well-rounded life includes connecting with your surroundings and the natural environment. Spending time in nature is one of the best things you can do for your mind and body, and this can provide huge benefits to your life, including:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety.
  • Improving cognitive functions, including your memory, attention control, and resilience.
  • Becoming physically healthier.
  • Building and strengthening social connections through community nature engagement.
  • Motivating yourself for pro-environmental efforts by enhancing your connection with nature.
  • Reducing pressure on NHS.