Nature for Wellbeing

Daily contact with nature is linked to better health, reduced levels of stress, reductions in obesity and improved concentration.

Watching a bird of prey overhead, seeing a Hedgehog snuffling around after dark, admiring a carpet of Bluebells in woodland can provide us with some of our most enduring memories and moments.  As your local Wildlife Trust, we’re here to provide opportunities and activities to regularly connect with nature and wildlife across the region – from visiting local nature reserves to guided walks, talks and volunteering, plus activities you can try in your own garden or neighbourhood green spaces.

1. Be Active

Go outside for a walk and explore your nearest Nature Reserve.

As part of our events programme we often have free walks and talks you can book yourself onto here.  Or enjoy some time to yourself or take a stroll and catch up with friends and family at one of our Nature Reserves. Here's our curated guide to five wonderful winter walks in the area.

2. Connect

With the people around you and share wildlife experiences.

A great way to mix with people in the region is to try one of the Trust’s volunteer sessions which run throughout the year. As well as the social side, the sessions provide good exercise and a chance to learn new skills. Opportunities that cover the different areas of the Trust's work our added throughout the year but why not take a look at the amazing work our Rivers Volunteers do and get involved! Find out more here.

3. Give

Do something to help your local place and the people that live there.

How about getting together with friends or neighbours to make your community more wildlife friendly?  From creating Hedgehog corridors across gardens to making sure the birds have a regular supply of food, you can find help and ‘how to’ guides here to work on together.

4. Take Notice

Of the everyday wildness on your doorstep.

It doesn’t take more than a few minutes outside to start seeing and hearing the vitality of nature. Venture outdoors to marvel at the changing colours, busy insects and birdsong, if you’re an early bird, just watch the day come up before routine kicks in.

5. Learn

Try something new.

Build up your wildlife knowledge by joining one of the Trust’s many talks and workshops throughout the year.  Events are added all the time and our programme gets busier as the year progresses, with activities for all ages. Sign up to our monthly E-news so you see what events are coming up and check out our current What's On Calendar here!

If you feel like you need further support, we recommend visiting the NHS website, Mind - the mental health charity and the health and wellbeing section of the Hertfordshire County Council website for more information and signposting to services.