On Wellbeing and Nature

Hi everybody and thank you for reading my second blog since moving to a small rural village. It is wonderful how being in such a natural environment can benefit well-being and mental health.

In an article for Psychology Today it was mentioned that when we slow down, we create space to reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

This weekend there was a Nature Festival in the village! As well as talks and walks I participated in a gel printing course using local plant materials in the local community centre.

So, I wasn't quite sure what it was it just sounded interesting. My husband and I just gave it a go and ended up finding that may have found a new hobby!

It never ceases to surprise me how regularly immersing yourself in nature, whether through outdoor activities, gardening, or simply basking in green spaces, can profoundly impact our mental well-being and overall quality of life.

These interactions evoke a range of positive emotions, from joy and wonder to awe-inspiring moments. Such experiences not only counteract feelings of sadness, anxiety, or boredom but also foster a deeper connection to nature.

By embracing the natural world, we embark on a journey of emotional enrichment and discovery, finding solace, inspiration, and rejuvenation amidst the beauty and serenity of the outdoors.

On the 24th of May, I will be participating in a course, about how climate change is affecting people’s mood and neurological functioning: which sounds a bit of a mouthful, but I am quite looking forward to seeing how the changes in the world are in turn affecting all of us.

It was lovely today because the intense heat broke, it actually rained, and I think everybody in the local area is feeling a release of tension.

I will check in soon, I hope everyone is taking care of themselves…