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Connecting with nature

Connecting with nature is important for good wellbeing

Easy access to quality green space has become an essential need for urban dwellers. But you don’t have to head for the hills. London’s parks and green spaces are free and open to everyone regardless of who you are or where you live. In fact, research from the Mental Health Foundation showed that during the pandemic going for walks outside was one of our top coping strategies and 45% of us reported being in green spaces had been vital for our mental health.

Here we outline some free resources to support you and others to connect with nature.

Resources to help you

Watch this Thrive LDN panel discussion on the benefits of green space for our wellbeing, and what can be done to overcome the barriers to accessing nature.

Read how to get your “Vitamin N” – for nature - to boost your wellbeing, from birdsong apps to growing your own fruit, veg or herbs.

Listen to 23-year-old Londoner Kas on her relationship with nature, and how that connection has supported her mental health, in this Mental Health Foundation podcast.

Resources to help you support others

Read how volunteering in a community garden was a ‘lifesaver’ for one mental health professional.

Check out this list of events and activities taking place in London’s Royal Parks.

Watch and hear from other Londoners about how connections – to nature, to others, and to our communities – are important ways of keeping our resilience topped up.