The Hillfields Community Wellbeing Blog
Finding Nature in Everyday Life
by Jules Allan
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Welcome to the first of our wellbeing blogs written for the Hillfields Community Garden.
Through these regular blogs, I hope to share gentle ideas, reflections, and conversations that help us feel a little more supported, exactly as we are. Together, we’ll explore small things that may help us feel more connected to ourselves, to each other, and to the world around us, including topics of nature, community, stress, work, family life, culture, food, creativity, and the many ways wellbeing may already exist within our everyday lives. |
For this first blog, it felt right to begin with something that’s already around us every day, and at the heart of Hillfields Park Community Centre nature and community.
When people talk about “getting out into nature,” it can sometimes sound like we all need hiking boots, a free weekend, and the energy of a Labrador puppy.
But many of us are simply trying to get through the week.
Nature doesn’t have to mean climbing mountains or wild swimming at sunrise, sometimes nature is simply noticing what’s already around us: a patch of blue sky and sunshine while taking the dog for a walk, the warmth of a cup of tea between our hands, the pitter patter of rain on the window, the sound of birds singing with their fellow feathered friends.
Nature is already part of our daily lives and by taking a moment, a pause, we can remind ourselves that we are part of the natural world around us.
Life can often feel stressful, stretched financially, or overwhelming at times, wellbeing needs to be realistic and not another thing on the to-do list. Often, the most supportive practices are small, ordinary, and already close by.
Research continues to show that spending time around nature can help reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing. Importantly, “time in nature” doesn’t have to look perfect. Even brief moments of noticing can help our nervous systems slow down a little.
When people talk about “getting out into nature,” it can sometimes sound like we all need hiking boots, a free weekend, and the energy of a Labrador puppy.
But many of us are simply trying to get through the week.
Nature doesn’t have to mean climbing mountains or wild swimming at sunrise, sometimes nature is simply noticing what’s already around us: a patch of blue sky and sunshine while taking the dog for a walk, the warmth of a cup of tea between our hands, the pitter patter of rain on the window, the sound of birds singing with their fellow feathered friends.
Nature is already part of our daily lives and by taking a moment, a pause, we can remind ourselves that we are part of the natural world around us.
Life can often feel stressful, stretched financially, or overwhelming at times, wellbeing needs to be realistic and not another thing on the to-do list. Often, the most supportive practices are small, ordinary, and already close by.
Research continues to show that spending time around nature can help reduce stress and support emotional wellbeing. Importantly, “time in nature” doesn’t have to look perfect. Even brief moments of noticing can help our nervous systems slow down a little.
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At Hillfields Community Garden, people connect with wellbeing in all sorts of ways: chatting over a cup of tea, growing food, sitting quietly, helping out and volunteering, bringing children along, or simply having somewhere welcoming to be. Being in community itself is part of wellbeing too.
Small Everyday Moments Little everyday things can give us a moment to pause before continuing with the rest of our day, such as:
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Research suggests that nature helps signal safety to the nervous system. In a world that can often feel rushed, noisy, or stressful, even brief moments of noticing trees, sky, birdsong, or fresh air can help the body soften and settle a little.
The “Feel Your Feet” Pause
This can be done anywhere – at the bus stop, washing up, waiting for the kettle to boil.
Pause for a moment and notice your feet against the ground.
You don’t need to breathe in a special way or empty your mind, just noticing.
The “Feel Your Feet” Pause
This can be done anywhere – at the bus stop, washing up, waiting for the kettle to boil.
Pause for a moment and notice your feet against the ground.
You don’t need to breathe in a special way or empty your mind, just noticing.
- the pressure underneath your feet
- the floor holding you up
- the fact that, for this moment, you are supported.
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A Nature Noticing Moment
While walking somewhere familiar, see if you can notice three things from the natural world.
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My name is Jules and I’m an integrated counsellor offering low-cost counselling sessions at Hillfields Park Community Centre through Community Counselling & Wellbeing.
I’m passionate about making wellbeing and emotional support feel accessible, inclusive, and realistic for everyday life. I believe wellbeing can look different for everyone, and that community, connection, and small moments where we can take a pause and a breath can make a difference.
I’m passionate about making wellbeing and emotional support feel accessible, inclusive, and realistic for everyday life. I believe wellbeing can look different for everyone, and that community, connection, and small moments where we can take a pause and a breath can make a difference.
Disclaimer: Jules Allan contributes these wellbeing blogs voluntarily for Hillfields Community Garden. Any mention of counselling or wellbeing services are shared for information only and do not constitute endorsement or financial partnership.
