The benefits of being in nature are well documented.
When it comes to movement, we are more likely to experience exercise as restorative when in green environments and blue spaces, compared to exercising in built outdoor environments (Kajosaari and Pasanen 2021).
What if your mental health makes being active outdoors difficult, however?
If you feel you need some extra support to move more outdoors, here are some ideas…
Green Gyms
Offer free, outdoor volunteering sessions across the UK, transforming green spaces.
To find a green gym near you, go to:
https://www.tcv.org.uk/greengym/find-green-gym/
Mental Health Mates
Peer support groups IRL and online, run by people with lived experience of mental health issues, meeting regularly to walk, connect and share without fear or judgement.
To find a local walk:
https://www.mentalhealthmates.co.uk/find-a-walk/
Wellbeing Walks
Many local councils now run “wellbeing walks” – these typically involve shorter distances, with the option to join longer walks if you wish. Check your local council website for further information.
The Ramblers Association also facilitate Wellbeing Walk Groups.
To find a Wellbeing Walk Group local to you:
https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/wellbeing-walks-groups
Community Garden Groups
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has information on how to join a local community gardening group. Go to:
https://www.rhs.org.uk/get-involved/community-gardening/find-a-group
Accessible Green Spaces
Accessible Countryside for Everyone (ACE) has details of green spaces accessible by those with restricted mobility, wheelchair, pushchair and mobility scooter users. Go to:
http://www.accessiblecountryside.org.uk
Wildlife
Spending time outdoors with other living creatures can be very beneficial for our mental health. Wildlife events can encourage movement, whilst providing a focus other than exercise. If you don’t have a garden, try visiting a local park or urban green / blue space.
The Big Garden Bird Watch takes place in January each year:
https://www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happening/big-garden-birdwatch
Big Butterfly Count takes place from Friday 12th July until Sunday 4th August 2024:
https://bigbutterflycount.butterfly-conservation.org
The Wildlife Trusts also offer “citizen science projects” both locally & nationally:
https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/citizen-science
Some other added benefits of moving more outside…
- Decreased stress levels
- Improvement in mood
- Increased relaxation
- Meeting your sensory needs
- Increased energy levels
- Having a change of scene
- Connection to the seasons
- Getting to know your local area
