Why Nature Matters for Our Wellbeing 

Spending time outdoors isn’t just enjoyable, it’s good for us. Whether it’s a walk in the local park, a moment spent by a stream, or a quiet pause at the wetlands, nature has a profound impact on both our physical and mental health. 

Nature’s sensory experiences promote relaxation. The simple act of listening to birdsong can significantly reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels; while even looking at roses has been shown to improve our moods and help us feel more relaxed.

The Power of Nature Connection 

Research from the University of Derby highlights an incredible truth, the closer our relationship with nature, the happier and more fulfilled we feel. But connecting with nature isn’t just about the amount of time we spend outside, it’s about how we interact with and experience the natural world that matters more. It’s this deeper connection that makes people more inclined to take positive actions for nature and inspires people to protect it. 

Yet, compared to other countries, people in the UK are less likely to spend time in nature and have an overall weaker connection to it. This is particularly concerning when we consider that the UK is one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world, with nearly one in six species are threatened with extinction.

The Bottom Line 

Nature isn’t just something to admire, it’s essential for our health and happiness. By fostering a stronger connection with the natural world, we can not only enrich our lives but also help protect the environment for future generations.

Connecting to nature across the Gwent Levels: 

The University of Derby identified five pathways to nature connectedness. Providing routes for people to develop a new relationship with the natural world  

• Senses - Actively engaging with nature through our senses, noticing what is seen, heard, felt, smelt or even tasted.   

  Example: Head down to Newport Wetlands, Magor Marsh, Parc Tredelerc or Hendre Lakes and take a moment to listen to the wind rush through the reedbeds.
   

• Beauty - Noticing and appreciating the beauty of nature and seeking opportunities to celebrate or experience it.

  Example:  The Gwent Levels is extremely flat meaning big open skies. Take time to notice the colours of the sky and the cloud formations you can see at sunrise and sunset.
  

• Emotions - Seeking, noticing and reflecting upon moments in nature that stimulate positive feelings of awe, wonder, joy, calm or delight.

  Example:  Pick a tree and notice it change throughout the year. What colour and shape are leaves in spring, summer and autumn. Notice the shadows of the branches in the winter if the tree has lost its leaves.
  

• Meaning – Exploring our own personal and cultural stories of what nature means to us. This can be through literature, art, music or celebrating natural events.

  Example: The Gwent Levels boarders the Severn Estuary, which has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world. Why not head down to the Sea Wall at Black Rock, Goldcliff, St Brides or Peterstone Wentlooge at different times of the day and notice the tide ebb and flow.
  

• Compassion – Actively seeking opportunities to help protect nature. 

  Example: Why not borrow a litter picking kit for free from one of the Keep Wales Tidy’s Litter Picking Hubs?

You can begin your journey to nature connectedness in your own gardens, local greenspaces or at one of the many nature-rich sites across the Gwent Levels. Find a place to visit near you - https://www.livinglevels.org.uk/interactive-map

Resources:  

• State of Nature Report 2023 - https://stateofnature.org.uk/  

• The Nature Connection Handbook from the University of Derby - https://findingnature.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/the-nature-connection-handbook.pdf

• Noticing Nature Report from the University of Derby and National Trust - https://www.derby.ac.uk/news/2020/university-of-derby-and-national-trust-join-forces-to-get-people-to-engage-more-with-nature/

• Five Ways to Wellbeing - https://neweconomics.org/uploads/files/five-ways-to-wellbeing-1.pdf

“Research shows that the closer we get to nature, the happier we are, the more worthwhile life seems, and the more we are willing to take action to help our wildlife and the environment.”

The Nature Connection Handbook, University of Derby.

Sense of Place Toolkit

The Gwent Levels Sense of Place Toolkit is a collection of places to visit and sights to see along with ideas and stories collected from local people and communities, providing a flavour of the area.

Download a copy or watch the toolkit videos.