Things we learnt
Experiences of the outdoors
From the start we explored the qualities of our favourite green and blue places and how these external characteristics affect the way we feel inside. It isn’t just about how things look either, as sounds, smells and textures are important too. We discovered that while some people enjoy being out in all weathers, others find particular types of weather, for instance storms or heat, unpleasant or even frightening. Everyone however agreed that being in nature on a calm and sunny day can help banish negative thoughts and worries, improve perspective on life events and lift your mood. At best, being surrounded by nature can induce a feeling of complete serenity which one group member described as ‘being in the middle of a large sigh’.
Preferred ways of experiencing nature varied across the group. Some members said that they liked being out and about with other people, others said they preferred being alone. All the group members said they enjoyed the companionship of a dog, while appreciating this would not be for everyone. Some enjoyed being active outdoors, some liked doing something creative, like sketching, while others declared they were happiest just staying still and taking in their surroundings.
What is the most important thing you've realised?
Louise: "Everyone can benefit from time in green / blue spaces but individuals may need very different types of encouragement to get out. Green/ blue space doesn’t always have to involve hiking in the wild it could be sitting and reading a book in the garden."
Rosie: "That nature is so important to people and helps people with their own mental health. Green spaces are so important and essential."
Simon: "The filming techniques and methods have been most interesting to me. Also I feel I have a better understanding of the difficulties others face when accessing green and blue spaces."
John: "The mindful approach was easier than I thought it would be - it just took the strength to take the risk of applying it
What helps and what hinders when it comes to getting out into nature?
We identified a number of factors that can prevent someone with a mental illness from getting out and enjoying the benefits of green and blue spaces. Some of these were psychological and some of these were more practical. In each case a number of potential solutions were proposed.
Barriers
Concerns about safety of space
Physical comfort and access
Feeling anxious about leaving the house or travelling to the destination
Feeling too depressed to go out
Difficult to travel to destination
Solutions
Maintain space properly, have wardens/lifeguards available
Create accessible paths, provide places to sit and rest, toilet facilities
Have a buddying system
Again having a buddying system, or having a pet that needs exercising can also help
Provide bus passes, car-lift scheme