May Scotland’s beauty lift the spirits of us all

At the risk of reigniting the heated “staycation” definition debate, it is uplifting to read VisitScotland’s findings that those holidaying in the country during the pandemic chose to do so for the benefit of their mental health.

While we get our fair share of wet weather, our nation is beautiful, inspiring and welcoming. There is a great deal of comfort and adventure to be found here, even for those who already call Scotland home.

A desire for change has been cited as part of the reason holidaymakers choose it as their destination, for good reason. Varied landscapes mean that bustling cities can easily be swapped for wide open spaces, and vice versa. And – unlike some other roadtrips across the globe – if you want to do it all in a week, that is entirely feasible.

This is an accessible and inclusive place. Travelling the country is not just a privilege reserved for those of us who drive. We have a reliable and wide-reaching public transport system, even during a public health crisis.

Holidays in Scotland are not exclusively for those who can afford expensive accommodation either. Our wild camping laws help ensure that everyone can afford to enjoy time away from home and in nature. That in itself may be a relief to some who have felt stressed about income over the last year or so.

Perhaps the most rewarding thing about getting out to explore our homeland again is that, by visiting newly reopened local businesses and helping to give the economy a boost, we will automatically be improving the mental health of others at the same time as our own.

During Mental Health Awareness Week we have been reminded of the sobering inevitability that we will all be psychologically affected by the changes and challenges we faced due to Covid. As restrictions gently ease, many will seek to improve their mental wellbeing, and we will likely welcome plenty of visitors looking for solace in Scotland.