Research shows that being active in nature helps keep you healthy throughout life. Whilst length of life has generally increased, this often doesn’t correspond with a long functional life.

A report commissioned by the Wildlife Trust concludes evidence based research suggests that being out in Nature is not only good for physical health but can also help reduce stress, improve mood and reduce social isolation. The report proposes five ‘Ways to Wellbeing’ to improve your physical and mental health:

CONNECT Make friends with the people around you.

BE ACTIVE Go for a walk outside.

TAKE NOTICE Be aware of the wonders of nature around you.

KEEP LEARNING Try something new.

GIVE Volunteer or help other people.

Regular access to green space is probably one of the most effective  ways of improving your health. Increasing your social connection is another. If you want to do something to help yourself and other’s there’s plenty of opportunities for volunteers in your locality to help in conservation groups and wildlife centres. The RSPB and Wildlife Trust are usually asking for volunteers.