Nature connection: a mindful moment of calm

The New Forest Primary Care Network (PCN) social prescriber team were invited to immerse themselves in the beauty of the New Forest National Park during the Green Halo Partnership conference – a major conference highlighting the value of nature to our health and well-being in the face of the climate, nature and health crises.

Social prescriber Diane Briggs was there. Here, she describes the positive effect of connecting to nature in that moment:

After a busy start to the day driving and getting to the Beaulieu venue, we were encouraged to participate in a nature connection experience, and it was nothing short of incredible. From the moment I stepped out of the venue into the New Forest, I was immersed in a peaceful and calming environment that allowed me to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the morning.

We were encouraged to take off our shoes and socks, and the guided mindful walking through the Forest helped me become fully present and attuned to the sights, sounds, and smells of nature. The experience not only reduced my stress and anxiety, but it also fostered a deep sense of connection with the natural world: creating a natural free health service for me and others.

I particularly appreciated the way our guide encouraged us to engage with our surroundings using all of our senses. They provided insightful and thoughtful prompts that allowed me to engage more intimately with the environment, further deepening my experience.

The experience was well-structured and thoughtfully organised, and contributed to creating an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience helping to rebalance the whole body and mind ready for the conference.

The nature connection experience was truly transformative. It provided me with a profound sense of calm and serenity and offered a much-needed reminder of the importance of being at one with nature. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking relaxation and a deeper connection with the natural world especially in the New Forest National Park.

As a social prescriber I will be encouraging our patients registered with the New Forest surgeries, and supporting them to access these green natural health benefits more – increasing engagement and improved health and well-being outcomes for the community.

A very big thank you, and I can’t wait to do this again for our community.