In the wild with Bisi New, Wiltshrie Wildlife Trust programme officer

How are you? Not sure? You can assess your wellbeing levels privately, from home, by filling in a short NHS questionnaire online at: http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/Wellbeing-self-assessment.aspx which then gives tips on improving your wellbeing.

I’ve been involved in Wiltshire Wildlife Trust’s Wellbeing Programme for six years and seen how being outdoors, mixing with other people, getting active and embracing nature, can significantly elevate people’s moods and lift their self-esteem.

Simply observing the natural environment around you, and noticing things, increases your level of awareness.

Learning new skills, such as woodland management, or reconnecting with an old skill, gives you a sense of purpose - as does giving something back to the community through volunteering. We work regularly with volunteers whose contribution improves their environment, as well as their own wellbeing, through conservation tasks and other activities suitable to their level of ability.

The Wellbeing Programme, funded by Wiltshire Council Public Health, works on the premise getting outside, doing or making something - with others or on your own – learning, and being physically active, can keep us healthy in body and mind and improve a sense of wellbeing. Volunteering is a great way to practise wellbeing.

There is real science and evidence behind this approach. The Biophilia Hypothesis (Edward O Wilson 1984) proposes that, as human beings, our bodies and minds are designed to be outdoors, in contact with nature. It follows that time spent outside, connecting with nature, can maximise a sense of wellbeing.

In our work we see positive results all the time which demonstrate the power of outdoor activities and regular and meaningful contact with nature.

Here is some feedback from a few of our volunteers:

“It is difficult to keep a sense of dignity when you are ill and this is a fantastic way to do it.”

“I never thought I would ever try nettle soup. But foraging and working outside is brilliant!”

“...better than any form of medication, it is not possible to put a monetary value on the work that Wiltshire Wildlife Trust does.”

You can practise all or one wellbeing activity at a time, at home or away, whatever you are doing. It costs nothing and you can do it by yourself or with family or friends.

To access the Wellbeing Programme, or find out more, give me a call on 07824 639637 or email me at bisin@wiltshirewildlife.org. Further information is also available on our website http://www.wiltshirewildlife.org/what-we-do/wellbeingproject

Bisi New, Programme Officer