It’s well known that regular visits to forests have a beneficial effect on both our mental and physical wellbeing. Whether it’s stress and anxiety reduction, improved immune function, better circulation or relieving the symptoms of depression, there’s growing evidence to suggest that a walk in the woods can have a positive impact on our health.
Working in conjunction with Forestry England – caretakers of more than 1,500 of the UK’s woodlands – we want to know what moments in nature have touched you the most, and perhaps even changed your outlook or your health. What are your favourite woodland experiences? Where were they and how did they make you feel? Was the impact of the experience long-term and was it alone, or did you share it with others?
Forestry England is dedicated to offering as wide an audience as possible access to forests across the country. With special programmes that focus on health and wellbeing – such as Feel Good in the Forest and wellbeing trails – along with activities such as walking, running, cycling and horse riding, it aims to encourage people to get outside and enjoy the natural world. The organisation’s easy access trails are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, while its inclusive children’s play areas feature quiet zones, sensory features and double-width slides.
Whether you have a single moment of revelation you want to share, or a regular practice that is integral to your daily life, we’d love to hear from you using the form below. We won’t be able to publish all the answers, but we will read them.
Image: iStock
