The Ultimate Snack
Why We All Need a Dose of “In the Wild”
This week, I’ve been thinking and talking a lot about the power of nature.
Earlier today, I was out walking and took a moment to just stop and “stretch my eyes” by looking into the distance. Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted a rainbow poking through the clouds (you can see it sneaking through on the left if you look carefully). If I hadn’t taken that moment, I would have missed it entirely. It was a beautiful reminder of why we need to look up.
Community and Connection at Alderbrook
On Monday, Laura and I headed to Alderbrook School, in Solihull, to run “In the Wild” sessions for a teacher training day. It was an incredible atmosphere—I love how Alderbrook brings together educators from the school and all their feeder primaries. Seeing a whole community of educators coming together sharing ideas and growing together is really special.
We ran two packed sessions, showcasing our tools for bringing nature into learning. But what struck me most was the immediate, visible positive impact the session had on the educators themselves.
“The others staff thought we were crazy coming outside today, but you know what it feels fantastic I’ve loved it. I can already think of so many of our students who would really benefit from these sessions” Primary School Staff Member
A few Glimmers* from the session participants.
(*tiny moments of joy)
Filling Your Own Cup
Like many parents I recently had two weeks off with my family, which was wonderful, but as many parents and caregivers know, holidays aren’t always “restful.” I arrived at the session feeling drained. To make matters worse, “work mode” brain had kicked in the night before, leaving me with only about two hours of sleep.
I felt like I was running on empty. But then:
I stepped onto the school grounds and felt the crunch of ice under my feet.
The sun was shining down through the crisp air.
I took a few deep breaths and felt an instant shift.
Nature has an incredible way of recharging us when we most need it.
Why Does It Feel So Good?
In our sessions, we often ask why nature is good for us. People mention the immune system, Vitamin D, or just feeling “happier.” But one of the most powerful reasons is evolutionary.
For the vast majority of human history, we lived entirely outdoors. It is only in very recent history that we’ve spent the bulk of our lives inside four walls. We didn’t just “decide” to like nature; we evolved in it. When we step outside, our brains and bodies recognise they are “home.”
Nature Snacking
So if you do one thing for yourself this week, find time for a nature snack. Even just 10 minutes a day can have a massive impact on your mental and physical health. Step outside, look at the horizon, stretch your eyes, and keep your ears open. You never know what you might spot when you actually take the time to look.
If your looking for some inspiration check out our Family Wellbeing Trails across the UK for the Canal & River Trust.
and to Become an In the Wild leader please get in touch.