Connect with Nature

Helping us care – for ourselves and nature

The more time we spend in nature, the more we learn to value it – the changing seasons, birdsong, sunlight through leaves, bees buzzing among flowers, or even tiny plants growing through cracks in walls – and the more we value it, the more we care about protecting it.

As Sir David Attenborough said:

“No one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.”

Spending time outdoors is good for us too. Even a few minutes outside can help calm the mind and slow the pace of everyday life – whether that’s opening a window to hear the birds, walking by the river, or spending time in a garden or green space.

• Try making time to connect with nature in small ways throughout the week. Just sitting quietly and listening to the outside world through an open window is a great place to start. Gardening is always a good way to feel part of nature, and if you don’t have outdoor space, perhaps someone you know does. You can also get involved locally through Greener Henley’s Wildlife Working Group sessions.