• People who usually feel little connection to nature benefit the most from nature 
• Major study finds that daily contact with nature is good for health and happiness
• Researchers used 1,000 survey responses of people exploring nature every day

For those who already love the great outdoors, it will come as no surprise.

Daily contact with nature is good for health and happiness, a major survey has found.

But rather than outdoor types, it is those who usually feel little connection to nature who stand to benefit the most, the researchers discovered.

Daily contact with nature is good for health and happiness, a major survey has found. A stock image is used above [File photo]

The University of Derby team carried out a five-year review of the Wildlife Trusts’ 30 Days Wild challenge, in which people commit to exploring nature every day. 

They looked at 1,000 survey responses and found those taking part typically reported a 30 per cent boost to health. 

Respondents also said they felt happier and more connected to nature. 

Professor Miles Richardson at the University of Derby, said the evaluation ‘shows the positive power of simple engagement with nature’.

But rather than outdoor types, it is those who usually feel little connection to nature who stand to benefit the most, the researchers discovered. A stock image is used above [File photo]

‘We were thrilled to see that the significant increases in people’s health and happiness were still felt even two months after the 30 Days Wild challenge was over,’ he said.

‘The Wildlife Trusts have shown the importance of doing simple things to enjoy everyday nature and that it can bring considerable benefits.

‘What really stood out was how the people who didn’t feel a connection with nature at the outset were the ones who benefited most from taking part in 30 Days Wild.’

Dom Higgins, head of health and education at The Wildlife Trusts, said: ‘Connecting with nature every day, in an easy way, is a must have for our own wellbeing.

‘That’s why The Wildlife Trusts are campaigning for better, wilder places near to where we all live and work so that everyone, everywhere, can enjoy nature on the doorstep.’

He added: ‘Our lives have been changed by coronavirus and this is giving people a reason to reflect on our relationship with nature, the way we live our lives and how we spend our free time.

‘Precious moments outside on a daily walk help us to relax and feel happier.

‘Even watching wildlife from a window, or on a webcam, connects us to that sense of being a part of nature, not apart from it.’

Source: Dailymail