Enjoy ‘random acts of wildness’ this month
CONNECTING with nature at least once a day for a month could make you feel happier and healthier, a study has found.
And a conservation charity in South Wales is encouraging people to do just that as part of an annual 30-day campaign to get the nation more at one with their natural environment.
The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales (WTSWW) wants to inspire “random acts of wildness” during its annual challenge, 30 Days Wild, for the month of June.
Anything from wildlife spotting on a work commute, to meditating in a meadow, it says, counts towards our daily dose of nature – which academics at the University of Derby concluded is good for our well-being.
Dr Miles Richardson, who led the study, said: “The impact of 30 Days Wild adds to the compelling argument for bringing nature into our everyday lives. Two months after taking part in 30 Days Wild, there was a 30% increase in the number of people who reported their health as excellent.”
Younger adults and those who didn’t already consider themselves “nature lovers” were those who benefited most.
Dr Richardson added: “Last year’s results also show people’s happiness continued to improve after 30 Days Wild ended, which illustrates its sustained impact.
“This is important as it is happiness and connecting with nature that influence im- provements in health.”
Last year, thousands of people carried out millions of “random acts of wildness”, and this year Rebecca Vincent at the WTSWW says the charity is aiming even higher.
She said: “There were 1.8 million ‘precious moments’ that brought people closer to nature which enhanced their lives.
“The Wildlife Trusts aims to double that number this year – and we hope that the connections people make with the wild around them will ensure that it is better protected for the future too.”
Organisers want to promote what they call the “glory of traditional meadows”, which bloom with wildflowers this month.
“Unimproved” pastures and meadows have a wealth of wild plants and animals, but are becoming increasingly rare – occupying just 5% of the area they did in 1945.
WTSWW cares for many that can be visited and enjoyed. Those wishing to take part can apply for a 30 Days Wild pack at welshwildlife. org/30-days-wild