Starling on bird feeder by Ben Hall/2020VISION
As we navigate through the next few weeks and the ‘new normal’ becomes increasingly removed from our usual way of life, we can all rest assured that nature has its part to play in ensuring our wellbeing.
Evidence shows that noticing the good things in nature benefits our mental health, an impact which is actually greater for those people who are more distant from nature.
Lesser celandine by Philip Precey
Now more than ever, during the next few weeks we should take time to notice nature every day, whether that includes managing to get outside and watch spring flowers start to emerge, or noticing nature from a window, such as watching how the breeze moves the trees or watching birds in flight or at a bird table.
To some extent, nature can also impact mental health by watching it on TV or a computer. How about starting with the Sir David Attenborough Box Sets available in BBC iPlayer.
Blackbird by David Tipling/2020VISION
With spring well underway, there are opportunities for everyone to take a moment to notice nature. Research has also shown that nature can play a part in helping socially isolated people feel more connected.
Take time to tune into nature through your senses, by listening to birdsong or smelling wild flowers.
Take time to appreciate the beauty in nature or to note the joy or calm the good things in nature can promote.
Perhaps take time to think about what you can do for nature and the positive actions you can take now or in a few months.
Peacock butterfly by Les Binns
Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. We'll be sharing lots of beautiful photos of local wildlife, ideas to enjoy nature during self-isolation and ways to help wildlife at this time.
Share your stories, sightings and ideas with us too. Tag us with @BBOWT and #EverydayWildlife.
You can join our friendly Facebook group to share photos of wildlife that you’ve seen in your garden, get help identifying any you’re not sure about, and share ideas for getting your daily dose of nature.
Get our newsletter. We’re sending out a regular email full of things to inspire and uplift you. Over the next few weeks, we'll be sharing lots of lovely things, including:
• Activities for children at home
• Tips on how to enjoy nature during self-isolation
• Gardening tips (including indoors if you don’t have a garden)
• Things to read and listen to
