GO WILD!

Looking for a mental health lift? Then head outdoors and make the most of nature's beautiful gifts

Being surrounded by nature is very good for our health - mentally and physically. "There's abundant evidence that people who have regular contact with nature are more active, mentally resilient and have better all-round health," says Dom Higgins of The Wildlife Trusts (www.wildlifetrusts.org), which is dedicated to ensuring nature plays a part in everyone's life. Dom explains that daily contact with nature is linked to lower stress levels, reductions in obesity and improved concentration, while research carried out by The Wildlife Trusts found that, after only 12 weeks, 60% of their volunteers were more physically active and 83% reported improved mental wellbeing. "Spending time in nature also improves people's awareness of the pressures facing our natural world," adds Dom. "And the more time we spend enjoying nature, the more likely we are to help protect it."

GO OUTSIDE

"Meet up with family and walk along the coast or explore your local nature reserve," suggests Dom Higgins. Alternatively, take a moonlit walk with friends in your local park or community woodland - be as quiet as you can be and you might spot bats, hear owls, spot hedgehogs scurrying into the undergrowth and foxes disappearing into the darkness.

WATCH THE SUNRISE

Set your alarm for just before dawn, find a quiet place with views across the countryside or the sea and look to the west. Experience the magical moments when the world slowly wakens up as the sun's rays appear over the horizon. Watch birds, insects and animals begin their day while wildflowers slowly unfurl their petals.