Wild restoration for urban dwellers

You can get a medicinal dose of nature in the city, say the eco wellbeing experts

Start a nature collection:

‘Every time I go for a walk, I fill my pockets with tiny finds, such as an acorn, an empty snail shell or a pretty stone,’ says author Emma Mitchell. Pick a theme – you could choose a colour or collect different types of leaves. Not only will this create something uplifting to look at on days when you can’t get outside, but collecting also activates the brain’s reward centre, a phenomenon known as ‘harvest high’ by scientists.

Turn your home into an oasis.

‘If you don’t – yet – have green fingers, begin with kitchen herbs,’ suggests Mitchell, ‘which have immediate culinary benefits. ‘Or try succulents, a particularly popular starter plant because they’re easy to care for and hardy. Plus, they need repotting quite often, which gives you an excuse to get your hands into the soil, which is therapeutic.’

Go foraging:

There are many books on the subject if you don’t know where to start. ‘Nettles are a great plant for beginners and make delicious tea,’ says psychotherapist Alix Hearn.

Try wild swimming.

As the popularity of this pursuit rises, more waterways are opening up to swimmers, alongside lidos. Memoirist Tamsin Calidas, who swims in the sea daily, says: ‘The water wraps around you, lifts you and brings you into your body – it’s like rewinding yourself.’

HEAL IN NATURE COACHING COURSE

After a long, tough winter, it’s time to feel good outside again. In our four-week coaching programme, ‘Heal in nature’, Lara Khalaf helps us explore how connecting with the earth on a more meaningful level can act as a balm to boost our emotional health. With tips to rewild ourselves, no matter where we live, we look at four key wellbeing areas and how to implement practical strategies using nature to help us feel grounded, cultivate inspiration, overcome challenges and nurture ourselves.