Being outside and connecting with nature is good for us, boosting our feel-good hormones and helping to reduce stress levels! Finding a way to be active in ‘green spaces’ (such as parks, gardens and the countryside) or in and beside ‘blue spaces’ (such as canals, rivers and lakes) is fantastic for our physical and mental health.
There are lots of things to choose from, many of which don’t just benefit us but are also good for our neighbourhood and the planet. Litter picking, conservation activities or even walking to work rather than taking the car plays a part in protecting nature, reducing pollution and cutting carbon emissions.
Many outdoor activities provide the opportunity to join a group and meet new people. It’s often our connection to others that keep us going back to an activity when the weather turns colder and the sofa seems more appealing!
Practical tips for getting started
- Get to know the blue and green spaces in your area where you can enjoy walking, running or cycling. Traffic-free cycling and walking routes allow you to enjoy nature and escape traffic pollution.
- Find out about groups in your area who come together to walk, run, paddle, cycle or garden. Visit our spaces and places to be active page to learn more about opportunities in your area.
- Explore volunteering opportunities with wildlife or community projects. How about planting trees, repairing towpaths, litter picking or working in a community garden or allotment? See below for some useful links.
- Walk or wheel to work, school or the shops, noticing the plants and animals as you go.
Online resources
Warwickshire Wildlife Trust provide information about nature reserves and wild walks in Warwickshire. You can also find out more about enjoying Warwickshire’s waterways here.
Put in your postcode and find out about walking, cycling, fishing, paddling, events and family days out. Alternatively, you can get the West Midlands guide to days out by the water delivered to your inbox.
Love Solihull is an environmental initiative co-ordinated by Solihull Council that supports members of the local community in making a real difference.
ARC (Achieving Results in Communities) supports people to access and engage with nature and community to improve their mental and physical wellbeing.
Wild Earth provides a programme that connects people with nature through gardening and outdoor activities, aiming to build confidence and improve overall health and wellbeing.
Volunteering Opportunities
You can find out more about volunteering opportunities in your area through these websites:
Get Involved Coventry – Volunteering opportunities in Coventry
CAVA – Volunteering opportunities in Solihull and Warwickshire
