Although face to face activities may not be possible this year, AONBs across the country are still keen to celebrate Landscapes for Life Week, albeit in a quieter way. Today we are celebrating how connecting with nature can make us feel happier and healthier.
We’ve been delighted to see our Stepping into Nature project go from strength to strength, finding new ways to help older people to feel happier and healthier by connecting to nature and the landscape around them.
Working with Public Health Dorset, artists and environmental organisations, they have developed new and sustainable ways for older people, people living with dementia and carers to connect with nature. Their latest report shows the success of the first 3 years of the project, engaging over 2500 people with a fascinating range of activities. You can also see two illuminating infographics – showing the impact on participants as well as community groups & organisations.
Today the Stepping into Nature team are promoting their new book designed to bring the sights and stories for the autumn into your home. Enjoy the beautiful imagery of autumn – available as a PDF or snap up a limited number of FREE books still available.
You can hear how storyteller Martin Maudsley and poet Sarah Acton were inspired to put the Seasons of Stories book together – their endless enthusiasm for all things natural is catching! Watch the short video, shot in a beautiful Dorset orchard last week.
We’re excited to announce that ‘Picnic in the Parks’ – our popular park events to help people live well and love nature – are being transformed to a fun online resource hub.
Like the events, the hub will be a rich pool of local information, interactive activities and taster sessions. And what’s better, it’ll grow over time and will be available whenever you feel like stepping into the virtual park!
Find out more about the Stepping into Nature project and keep up to date with news or contact Julie Hammon & Steph Aburrow, Dorset AONB Team for further information.
We all know how much better we feel after a day in nature, away from the screen. But did you know that the legislation which created AONBs was passed in 1949 as a green partner of the NHS?