Green Medicine

As a keen outdoorsman and busy GP, Paul Sampson has come pretty close to attaining the mercurial work-balance. When not busy with his patients, he can be found hiking, climbing, paddle boarding, wild swimming… anything that gets him outside soaking up the great outdoors and reconnecting with nature in the beautiful South of Cornwall.

- DR PAUL SAMPSON

In his professional role, Paul quickly recognised the importance of the natural environment on both body and mind and now even recommends his patients get on board with making lifestyle changes and embracing lifestyle medicine for physical and mental health improvement. A busy dad of two under-fives, we caught up with Paul to pick his brains on getting out and about on the water with young children and how medicating their lifestyle with the great outdoors has impacted the whole family for the better. Here is Pauls top tips on embracing the outdoor lifestyle with children and reaping the rewards.

Be brave (and prepared)!

Having kids is undoubtedly life-changing but it in no way should it stop you doing the things you want to do. We bring our kids everywhere with us and love that they get to experience a wide array of environments and cultures with us. We always encourage our children to live an outdoor lifestyle as we know how much it can benefit their physical and mental health. In saying that, long journeys with young and demanding children can be taxing at times! I would suggest plenty of toys and plenty of bribes to get you through!