Join in with Naturally Healthy May and Feel Happier and Healthier

Naturally Healthy May is about encouraging people of all ages to connect actively to nature.

May is a wonderful month to explore our amazing natural environments and breathe in the best of Devon’s fresh air. We are fortunate to have so many green and blue spaces in Devon and you do not have to travel far to find them.

Looking after our physical and mental health is so important and there is growing evidence that the power of nature and physical activity can make a difference. For example, by increasing the time you spend outside in nature by just ten percent every day, you can significantly improve your health and wellbeing.

There is Something for Everyone

There are many ways to connect actively to nature, either by yourself or with friends and family. Such as, exploring the woods with family or going on a bike ride through the countryside with friends. Or you may prefer to do some gardening or bird watching. You could even join a walking group or have a picnic in the local park with your grandchildren.

To get you started, Kate Hind from the Devon Local Nature Partnership (Devon LNP), has put together these great naturally healthy ideas.

During the month, events and activities have also been arranged across the county by partners, to offer everyone the chance to join in and try something new.

You can check out Devon Connect to see what events and activities are happening in your local area. Plus, the Devon LNP website has more naturally healthy ideas and opportunities.

Sharing Naturally Healthy Ideas During May

Active Devon and Devon County Council on behalf of the Devon LNP will be sharing #NaturallyHealthyMay ideas and information on social media throughout May. We will also be asking partner organisations to join in by promoting the benefits and running events and activities.

Keep an eye on social media @activedevon @DevonLNP. For organisers and participants please inspire others to get ‘Naturally Healthy’ too.

Get Involved with Future Naturally Healthy Months

Naturally Healthy month is part of Devon’s Naturally Healthy initiative, led by Active Devon and Devon County Council on behalf of the Devon LNP. It brings together a wide range of partners from the health, wellbeing, community and environment sectors to ensure that everyone in Devon is happier and healthier through increased connection to nature.  If you are interested in getting involved, please contact us.

Connecting to Nature 

“Connecting to nature is all about using your senses to notice what is around you. This could be hearing the dawn chorus, feeling the wind against your face, or seeing new flowers emerging from the ground. By valuing these experiences nature becomes more important to you and your feeling of belonging and wanting to conserve them. By being active in nature you are getting the benefits of being physically active and connecting to nature, a double whammy to your overall health!

“This year, as part of the campaign, we will be celebrating the Connecting Actively to Nature programme, by showcasing examples of inspiring projects and stories from around the county and sharing some of the impact and learning so far from this innovative initiative.” Active Devon’s Tom Mack.