Feel Good in the Forest is a joint initiative between Forestry England, Sport England and the National Lottery, aimed to promote physical activity, wellbeing and resilience by connecting with nature.

Individuals with a mild-to-moderate health conditions can self-refer to the scheme, or be referred by a GP or support worker through social prescribing. At the Chopwell Wood site near Gateshead in the north east, there are group sessions involving cycling, singing, gentle exercise, gardening, archery and more.

The combination of healthy physical activity, socialising and the forest environment, all evidence-based in their own right, is designed to support people to take more control of their lives, establish healthy habits, make improvements and find connections.

The Mental Health Foundation have conducted research into the impact of nature on our wellbeing. You can read their report here: Nature: How connecting with nature benefits our mental health

Why don't you take some time to get outside this weekend?