Be kind to yourself boost your mood by noticing nature.

Try these 8 practical exercises

@mentalhealth #WorldKindnessDay #WetlandWellbeing

Look for other life around you, from plants to insects to birds. What wildlife do you spot? It’s not always obvious, so take the time to look hard at everything. Notice how it looks, sounds, moves. You might spot details in the smallest things you’ve never noticed before.

Go outside and walk mindfully, noticing each step, how it feels on the ground, the crunch of leaves or ice. Listen to the water splashing, the birds calling and the reeds rustling.

Write down positive experiences you’ve had in nature during lockdown that improved your mood. Perhaps you’ve drawn a picture, heard a song, watched a video related to nature that made you feel calmer and happier? Plan to include these experiences in your day at a regular time.

Listen to the birds. Which do you recognise? Are they high-pitched, low, quiet, or loud? Visualise a favourite natural space – where will you go, what do you see, how does it make you feel? If at home you can use pictures, sound recordings or videos to help transport you.

Watch water - at a wetland, in your pond, bird bath, or create your own mini indoor pond. Find a river or stream that you can sit next to safely. Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of the water. Being near water is scientifically shown to improve our wellbeing.

Decide on a series of five colours when out on a walk and find objects in those colours as you go. When you reach the end of the sequence, start again. This is a fun trick to help you be present in the moment, without distractions.

What’s my natural object? This is a fun one to play with kids - you'll need at least two people. Blindfold your partner (or ask them to close their eyes). Choose a natural object and place it in their hands. Get them to feel and smell it carefully. Can they guess the object?

Think back to your past week noticing nature and note down three things you’re grateful for. Keeping a gratitude diary might seem a bit silly at first, but it can help us appreciate the small things that boost our mood, that we're often unaware of.

More on the benefits of noticing nature, here > https://www.wwt.org.uk/discover-wetlands/waterlife-online/2020/11/05/being-present-in-nature-10-practical-exercises-you-can-try/19636