Time outdoors can encourage us to take more exercise which is known to help relieve acute stress; reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression and improve sleep.
Opportunities to connect with nature are largely free, accessible to most people wherever they live, work or go to school and require minimal specialist equipment. They can lend themselves to group activities which help build social connections.
Creating a routine to get out into nature can be a great way to improve your physical and mental wellbeing.
Finding the motivation to get out and about can be hard but evidence has shown that time outside regularly can reduce the severity of depression, and reduce feelings of stress, anger and anxiety. You don’t need to go far or for long.
Spending time in nature can be as simple as sitting outside in your backyard or going for a walk around your neighbourhood.Just ten minutes in the fresh air is known to have a positive effect on our health and wellbeing. Activities could include:
• Walking or cycling
• Creating art, poetry or prose inspired by nature.
• Eating meals outdoors – have a picnic, or simply sit in a garden.
• Watching the stars, the sunrise or a sunset.
• Beachcombing or litter picking to help the environment
• Tree planting or outdoor volunteering
• Wildlife watching
• Being mindful – finding things to see, hear, taste, smell and touch.
Most of us have some green space near to our homes and connecting with nature doesn’t need to cost anything. Scheduling a little outdoor time into your daily routine can do wonders for your health and wellbeing.
We have a downloadable copy of this guidance here
The coronavirus outbreak has been going on for a while now. Daily life has changed for all of us in Scotland and it can feel worrying, lonely and uncertain. It’s ok to not feel yourself. The Clear Your Head Campaign has have some great tips to help you clear your head and connect with others.