Go green and make life improvements

Wi s haw f olk are being encouraged to explore their local green spaces.

This is national Green Health Week and NHS Lanarkshire and Get Outdoors Lanarkshire have joined forces to make spending time outdoors even easier.

They have teamed up with the walking app Go Jauntly, which is available on iPhone and Android, and helps people explore some of their favourite local walks.

The app, which is free, promotes walking for leisure and nature connection and is an ideal way to discover new local walks that are created by the people who know and love them.

The aim of Green Health Week is to encourage people to embrace the health benefits of spending time outdoors.

This can include activities such as walking, gardening, cycling, volunteering and outdoor learning.

Vicki Trim, senior health improvement manager, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Research shows that spending time outdoors plays an important role in improving our overall mental health and wellbeing.

“Green Health Week is a fantastic opportunity to explore the outdoors and the Go Jauntly app provides over 10 Lanarkshire walking routes that come recommended by walkers.

“We have also been reviewing local walks beside our hospitals to support able patients, hospital visitors and our staff to experience a boost to their physical, emotional and mental health.

“The health benefits of spending time in nature are known to help relieve stress, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve sleep.”

Hana Sutch, CEO of Go Jauntly, added: “Here at Go Jauntly we’ve been dreaming of escaping to Scotland.

“For a walk, for a holiday, maybe even forever! So on this note, we’ve made it our mission to launch new walks across this beautiful country.”