If you’re like me, you might be asking how we’ve got to the point where we destroy wildlife habitats, overconsume and create waste without thinking about the impact. You might be wondering how, or even if, each of us can make a difference.

Of course, politicians, industries and businesses will have the greatest impact on sustainable living, but let’s not wait and hope. Let’s take action. Every one of us can help create a greener, healthier world by having conversations, living differently, and working together in our communities. I created this blog in 2015 to start a conversation for change and a new direction in my own life.  

The inspiration for my interest in health, nature and education

Although I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors, it wasn’t until I had my own family that I had the opportunity to see the wonders of nature through a child’s eyes. We fed birds in our garden and walked to the park, the woods and Houghton House, a ruin on a blustery hilltop. Long walks aren’t tiring for children when there are leaves to swish through, puddles to stomp in and conkers to collect!

We spent family holidays in the countryside or on the coast, away from the hustle, and when we moved to New Zealand, we were lucky enough to see whales, dolphins, penguins, albatross and even the elusive kiwi.

I’ve always cared about the natural world as far as I understood it, but when our daughter studied zoology, I became interested in conservation and the impact of environmental degradation on wildlife. I’m also interested in public policy and the long-term impact of environmental issues not being given equal consideration alongside social and economic issues. I’m hopeful that natural capital will be included in economic assessments and that sustainable business will become the norm.

Animal welfare has been on my mind since the late 80s when I first read about intensive farming in the UK. Over the years, I’ve thought more carefully about my food choices, making gradual changes to reduce and eliminate animal products, initially for animal welfare reasons, and now health and environmental reasons too.

Life is filled with opportunities to find meaning 

Life is a process of transformation as we take on different roles to meet changing needs and circumstances. I’ve been a computer programmer, international athlete, Montessori teacher, sports massage therapist, young athletes coach and café manager, but my most fulfilling role has been Mum.

As our children fledged, I finally finished a BA in English & Creative Writing. Now I’m a writer and editor.

I’m in my element when I’m learning, thinking and writing. I’m fascinated by health, nature conservation and animal behaviour research and how it can help us improve the way we live. I’m passionate about the writing process, enjoying every step from initial inspiration to final polishing.

When I’m not writing, I like to be outdoors, rain or shine. A few years ago, you could see me walking through New Zealand bush, stopping to watch the birds—the acrobatic fantail, the nectar-feeding tui and the tiny silvereye. Now I’m back in the UK, delighted to be reunited with the English robin and to watch the local blackbirds taking a dip in my birdbath!

I care deeply about wildlife conservation and animal welfare, and how nature can benefit our health. I’m happiest when I’m connecting with people who share these passions!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

‘Be the change that you wish to see in the world’ – Mahatma Gandhi

Image credit:
Surf n’ Fun at Burton Bradstock by David Brighten
Girls Graduation by David Brighten
Blackbird Bathtime by David Brighten