From woods and rivers, to gardens, parks and even houseplants, connecting with nature can come in many forms. The relationship between the greener parts of life, and the boosts to our mental and physical health have been long known, and are only becoming more apparent. Even watching nature documentaries has been shown to be a mood lifter, but nothing truly beats spending time in the outdoors. The gardeners among you may have noticed you feel considerably more chipper after getting your hands dirty – well interestingly, healthy soils often contain a bacteria called Mycobacterium vaccae, exposure to which triggers the release of serotonin in the brain.
May (assuming this rain lets up!) is month of wildflowers and birdsong, and the perfect opportunity to explore what the springtime landscape has to offer. Those amongst you who are less averse to an early rise, may have enjoyed rising with our feathered friends. Dawn Chorus Day always falls on the first Sunday in May, with many organisations and community groups joining to immerse themselves in this natural orchestra.
Despite the soggy conditions, at the farm we are seeing spring push its way through – blossom is adorning the hawthorn and blackthorn, little lambs are exploring the hillsides, and bluebells are beginning to carpet the woodland.
May will also signify the start of a very exciting project for Fordhall – our partnership with Lingen Davies. The project is funded by this cancer charity, launched in 1979 to bring cancer services closer to the people of Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid-Wales, to create a wide range of restorative, fun and uplifting sessions, all rooted in nature. The sessions, evolving around attendees’ feedback, will cover a range of interests and activities, from photography, to bush craft, to conservation, to nature inspired art and more!
All activities are free to access, but must be pre-booked as the group sizes will be kept low. For more information, please visit fordhallfarm.com/renewandrestore, or contact Nicola on community@fordhallfarm.com
Francesca Lant, Marketing and Communications Officer