26/10/2026
🌿 Can spending time in nature support our wellbeing? What does the evidence say?
We often think of looking after our health in terms of what we eat, how much we exercise and how well we sleep.
But what about the environment we spend our time in?
🌳 Research suggests that spending time in green spaces, such as parks and woodlands, and blue spaces, such as lakes and coastlines, can be associated with better mental wellbeing.
Why might nature make a difference?
🍃 It gives us an opportunity to slow down. Time in natural environments can provide a break from everyday demands.
🚶♀️ It encourages movement. Parks, gardens and woodland paths can make physical activity more enjoyable and accessible.
🧠 It may support mental wellbeing. Research has linked exposure to natural environments with benefits for mood, stress and aspects of attention.
💚 It creates opportunities for connection. Walking with a friend, gardening with others or joining a community activity can combine time outdoors with social interaction.
🌿 Nature is also becoming part of wider conversations about public health. Green social prescribing initiatives in England connect people with community-based activities, including nature-based opportunities, to support their health and wellbeing.
Of course, nature isn’t a cure for every problem, and individual experiences differ. But making time for the outdoors can be a valuable part of a broader approach to looking after ourselves.
Why does this matter for women over 40?
Midlife can bring changing responsibilities, competing demands and new priorities.
We may spend so much time looking after everyone else that we forget to make space for ourselves.
Perhaps we don’t always need another complicated routine. Perhaps we can begin with something simple: a walk in the park, a few minutes in the garden or time beside the water.
At Age Well Naturally, I explore how nature, movement, nourishing food, sleep, mindfulness, purpose and new experiences can contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling life as we age.
Because healthy ageing isn’t just about adding years to life. It’s also about supporting our wellbeing throughout those years. 💚
Your little challenge for this week: Find one opportunity to spend time outdoors. Notice the trees, listen to the birds or simply pay attention to the world around you.
You don’t need to travel far or spend hours outside. Start where you are.
🌿 Age Well Naturally
Healthy ageing, rooted in nature, movement and purpose.
🌐 agewellnaturally.org
Sources for further reading: World Health Organization publications on urban green spaces and health; NHS England information on green social prescribing.