Life is constantly changing – with good times as well as lots of challenges. The more flexible and adaptable we are the better we will cope and thrive. This is also known as resilience. We can see this in our natural world too, with the changing seasons and increasingly extreme weather patterns putting nature under pressure. There is alot we can learn from nature however and studies have proved how spending time in the natural environment improves our mental health and feelings of well being.
By combining walking with nature we experience a double whammy which can help us reduce stress, fatigue, anxiety and depression, resulting in improved mood, better sleep, increased concentration and vitality. It can also boost our immune systems, improve recovery time from illness and can even reduce some chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and respiratory tract illnesses. It can combat loneliness and help bind communities together as well. There are even proven benefits from looking at pictures of nature too, whilst indoors.
January is usually one of the coldest, darkest months, though we have passed the winter Solstice and so it is begining to get lighter. A new year brings new possibilities and so hope too. We are generally insides more trying to keep warm with central heating and artificial lighting on and tend to feel less active and generally want to sleep more. We can see this reflected in nature in some trees. They’ve shed their leaves and are conserving energy by not growing and may be described as resting. More rest is good for us too as our bodies are deprived of sunlight and vitamin D and we often get colds and flu now.
By adopting some positive practices, such as walking in nature, whether twice daily, daily or weekly we create a rhythm in our life. Its especially helpful to get outsides in the winter on a sunny day as light is a trigger in our circadian rhythm for alertness whilst darkness helps our body sleep.
The more we do these positive practices, the more likely it becomes something we do without effort so that it happens automatically, like cleaning our teeth. Just start to do some walking and build up gradually. This practice then becomes a good coping strategy in difficult times, as opposed to unhelpful things like excessive alcohol or binge eating. The same applies to when we eat and sleep. Having regular times for these essential repeating cycles helps build the foundations of wellbeing and resilience.
By adopting some positive practices, such as walking in nature, whether twice daily, daily or weekly we create a rhythm in our life. Its especially helpful to get outsides in the winter on a sunny day as light is a trigger in our circadian rhythm for alertness whilst darkness helps our body sleep.
The more we do these positive practices, the more likely it becomes something we do without effort so that it happens automatically, like cleaning our teeth. Just start to do some walking and build up gradually. This practice then becomes a good coping strategy in difficult times, as opposed to unhelpful things like excessive alcohol or binge eating. The same applies to when we eat and sleep. Having regular times for these essential repeating cycles helps build the foundations of wellbeing and resilience.
Being outdoors also gives us a unique opportuinity to have a different experience from the day to day interactions inside with people and from social media. There are numerous ways we can interact with the natural world whether we swim in lakes or climb mountains. It is also alive with wildlife and changing seasons. Noticing what is happening around us can be very inspiring. There is much to learn about too and it can help our own growth and development. Its an opportunity to meet new people, learn from each other including picking up new skills. A peaceful walk also allows people to give time and attention to each other. Plus we can give something back to the natural spaces through looking after, planting and managing spaces.
If you are interested in walking outdoors why not consider joining our Walking for Wellness monthly walks in Bramley. The next one is on Sunday 29th January 10-12.