Written by Isabel McLeish, Health Walk Coordinator
As the Coordinator for the Think Nature Health Walks, I support a network of walking and buggy groups throughout rural Highland. Our walks help you to connect with nature, meet likeminded people, and to enjoy being more active outdoors. Walking in your local green space is a great way to support your health and wellbeing.
The walking groups are for all ages and abilities and can support those with a whole range of physical, mental and social health conditions. All walks are led by trained volunteers on a risk assessed route and are safe, fun and free! You’ll find a warm welcome and a walk at a pace and length that suits you, whatever your ability. Our walks often finish with a cuppa, and we regularly include nature, creative and heritage activities as part of our walk programmes throughout the year.
Physical activity, especially in nature, is so beneficial for our health and wellbeing. Walkers share how important the groups are for helping them to get out and about more, developing connections with others, and reducing social isolation.
- “A couple of our walkers commented that they look forward to this walk every week as a way to get out of the house and catch up with a new group of friends.” – Volunteer Walk Leader
- “Walking with the group has been a pleasure. Everyone is so welcoming and friendly and it has given me a real sense of purpose and inclusion in the community.” – Volunteer Walk Leader
- “I have recently joined the walks round Golspie and have enjoyed them immensely, having been to interesting new places in the area. I have arthritis and walk slowly but everyone has been very kind and patient and Amanda (Walk Leader) has been thoughtful in making sure the route is manageable for me.” – Walker
- “Only 1 hour but still good for mind, body and soul.” – Walker
- “The walk was excellent, gentle pace, and great to be in company.” – Walker
- “I have noticed that my son is calmer after Buggy Walk. He runs with other children, feeds ducks, sing songs with Kasia (Walk Leader) and on the way back is tired, ready for his nap. It is also good for me to chat with other mums and just be on fresh air”. – Buggy Group Walker
- “This group helps me to get out of my house. I feel much better after Buggy Walk. I have other mums to talk to.” – Buggy Group Walker
- “I have noticed that it is easier to open up when we are on Buggy Walk.” – Buggy Group Walker
Our project and walking groups wouldn’t be possible without a dedicated team of volunteers throughout Highland. Volunteering helps people benefit from fresh air, improved fitness, and friendship. Volunteers can also see benefits through the 5 ways to wellbeing!
- Be active > by walking
- Keep learning > with training
- Take notice > of nature & local place
- Connect > with others
- Give > back to your local community
Full support and training are provided to volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering as a Walk Leader, please get in touch!
To find your local walking group, visit: https://www.highlandtsi.org.uk/walks
Isabel McLeish, Health Walk Coordinator
Email: isabel@highlandtsi.org.uk Mobile: 07385 380642
