One of the many things that COVID-19 and the lockdown highlighted is the importance of the great outdoors to our health and wellbeing. Urban green spaces such as parks and gardens were the most visited during lockdown, with walking becoming a favourite activity.
The green social prescribing movement is aiming to get even more of us outdoors.
What is the green social prescribing movement?
This is where medical professionals such as GPs 'prescribe' an activity such as outdoor exercise or growing your own food and flowers. Link workers based in communities support people to find the right activity that will meet their interests and be easy to get to.
The good news is that it's not just about the green side of things - blue areas such as lakes, canals and our own Wigan Flashes also offer many health benefits, providing areas for walking, watching nature or just a spot to sit and think. There are opportunities all around us.
Across Greater Manchester we are calling this Nature for Health - and it is important that people and communities suffering from the worst health, especially mental health can find opportunities where they live. This isn’t just about having a good time outside – though that is important. Research shows that active people are 30% less likely to become depressed.
How improving your health can help nature
An additional advantage to being outdoors is that there are many fun activities that also help nature to recover and flourish - from planting trees to sowing wildflowers and keeping parks tidy.
Doing something to help nature, and ensure beautiful green spaces are available for our friends and family, makes you feel great. You're also always part of a group, so it's a great way of socialising and meeting new people.
Want to know more?
To find out more about what is happening and become part of the Nature for Health network contact Miranda Clarke by emailing miranda@cityoftrees.org.uk
You may also want to check out the following useful resources: