With this in mind, here is our pick of the best wellbeing and nature walks<\/a>, mindful crafts to enjoy, relaxing nature books<\/a> and wellbeing retreats.<\/p> In recent years, a number of studies have found that walking in the countryside can boost mental health through the reduction of stress and levels of depression and the promotion of self-esteem.<\/a> Exercise in the outdoors can also, of course, improve physical health<\/a> and researchers have found that even just living near to green spaces<\/a> can boost feelings of well-being.<\/p> Did you know that May is National Walking Month<\/a>? Find inspiration for walks with our pick of the best routes in the UK<\/a>.<\/p> From improving your health and fitness to making new friends, joining a walking group has many benefits. Our guide on walking groups<\/a> looks at the many benefits of rambling with others and how to find and join a walking club in your local area.<\/p> The first thing you need to know about forest bathing is that it does not involve swimming costumes, or even water. \u2018Bathing\u2019 in this sense just means a fully immersive experience of woodlands.<\/p> Also known as forest therapy, forest bathing encourages you to slow down, relax and engage your senses with the woodland around you: the sound of the wind in the leaves, the fragrance of ferns and fungus, the play of dappled light on the forest floor. Read more about the benefits of forest bathing.<\/strong><\/a><\/p> A recent study found that wildlife volunteering can significantly improve mental health<\/a>, <\/strong>with two thirds of participants reporting improved feelings of positivity six weeks into the volunteering scheme. Tracking and viewing wildlife is also often found to be a calming activity.<\/p> The British countryside is not easily accessible for everyone, but this doesn’t mean urban dwellers need to forgo the clear benefits of interacting with nature. Urban farms<\/a> are now a common sight in inner city areas, offering education (particularly for children) about where food comes from, helping people with mental and physical health challenges, and promoting community empowerment.<\/p> Other easy ways to bring more nature into your day could be walking in your local park or green space, gardening, or even cloud watching.<\/p> Simple ways to interact with nature<\/strong><\/p> Doing craft activities that require concentration is a form of mindfulness and has been shown to improve mental health. Why not try making a sea glass mobile<\/a> or constructing a kite<\/a> this week?<\/p>Walk in the countryside<\/h3>
Join a walking group<\/h3>
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Try forest bathing<\/h3>
Take part in wildlife or environmental volunteering projects<\/h3>
Interact with nature regularly<\/h3>
Make nature-inspired crafts<\/h3>
Listen to the BBC Countryfile Magazine<\/em> podcast<\/h3>
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