Blickling National Trust

As autumn passes the baton to winter, we can find ourselves slowing down. The colder weather may keep us indoors where there’s plenty of technology to entertain us. But too much screen time can leave us feeling more stressed. We’re becoming less connected to the natural world, yet research shows that spending time in nature is good for our health.

The Wildlife Trusts and the University of Essex report that nature experiences give us many health benefits. Nature reduces anxiety and stress and improves mood, self-esteem, and attention and concentration. Exposure to nature also increases immunity and can help reduce symptoms of ADHD in children. Such is the importance of nature to wellbeing that Richard Louv, co-founder of the Children & Nature Network, describes it as ‘Vitamin N’.

With shorter days and less sunlight, winter blues and even depression can strike but getting outdoors can lift our spirits. Despite the colder weather, winter can be the ideal time for a nature walk and Norfolk the ideal place. Continue reading →