Undertake ‘random acts of wildness’ throughout the month

Biophilia

 

Undertake ‘random acts of wildness’ throughout the month. This June the Wildlife Trust are challenging people to find their inner wildness and to undertake ‘random acts of wildness’ throughout the month. These acts could include something as simple as making and wearing a daisy chain necklace, putting out a bird feeder in your garden or something more dramatic such as testing your survival skills and spending the night under the stars out in the wild. There are many reasons why we should try and reconnect with nature and channel our inner wildness, not least because a study conducted by the University of Derby concluded that an increased connection with nature can result in greater feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Also spending more time outdoors is undoubtedly good for our health and fitness, and helps us to appreciate and therefore be more likely to help with the growing need for nature conservation. Lucy McRobert, the campaign manager for the 30 days wild initiative said “The results of our study show that taking part in 30 Days Wild makes people happier, healthier, and more connected to nature in the long term.” Dr Miles Richardson, head of psychology at the University of Derby, who carried out the study said that the study results backed up the idea that a connection with nature could reduce demand on the NHS; “Even in urban areas, nature can provide a simple solution to complex problems.” It’s easy to feel a complete disconnect with nature when sitting in an office, breathing in artificial air and surrounded by technology, but armed with the knowledge that experiencing nature is so beneficial, here are some ways in which to participate with 30 Days Wild from your office.

1.Hold Meetings outside

Escape from the stuffiness of the boardroom and arrange to engage in meetings in the fresh air instead. If there is nowhere suitable at your place of work then find a nearby park. Being outside in the fresh air and surrounded by greenery will give you an instant mood boost and encourage creativity. It is now widely accepted that children benefit from having lessons and learning outdoors, so it follows that adults will reap those same benefits too.

2.Use Biophilic Design

Biophilic design is the practice of using natural elements to enhance buildings. A global study into the impact of office design, which collected data from 7600 workers in 16 countries found that those who worked in spaces that incorporated green or other natural elements reported a 15% increase in wellbeing compared to other participants, and were 6% more productive, and 15% more creative overall. Ways in which you can easily incorporate biophilic design into your own office might be introducing plants (the more the better), relying less on artificial light, and painting walls natural colours.

3.Get back to nature with an office day out

Instead of the clichéd social events at work which normally include alcohol and dancing (and then, let’s face it, often embarrassment and regret the morning after), organise a day out somewhere green. The potential activities are endless, hiking, geocaching, den building and learning a woodland craft are to name but a few. This would undoubtedly promote good team building, would be a fun and healthy way to socialise all whilst connecting to nature. It’s not too late to sign up for 30 Days Wild, sign up at wildlifetrust.org - 30 Days Wild for more ideas and try to incorporate some wildness into your personal life too-grrrrrr!!