Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust

COULD you do one thing to connect with nature every day for a month and feel happier and healthier as a result?

That is the 30 Days Wild challenge being laid down by Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust.

The trust is offering free herb seeds and an inspirational guide to everyone who signs up to do one wild thing every day during June. There are also special packs for schools, businesses and care homes.

Estelle Bailey, chief executive of the trust, says: “With wildlife in crisis across the UK, it seems fair to ask: Are we still a nation of nature lovers? I believe the answer is a resounding yes.

“This year is the 10th anniversary of both 30 Days Wild and my own time with the trust.

“Over those 10 years I’ve had the privilege of seeing our communities’ commitment to restoring nature where they live and enjoying all it has to offer.

“While our first year of running 30 Days Wild saw just over 500 people sign up across our three counties, last year more than 4,000 took on the challenge, which is brilliant.

“This momentum comes as no great surprise — connecting with nature is so important for our sanity and general wellbeing.

“My top tips to enjoy 30 Days Wild are sit, walk, run, lay on the grass, look up, look down, fix on something, don’t be afraid to touch or smell it.

“Smile at the sun, throw your arms out in the rain, get wet, walk barefoot on grass and bare earth, have a cuddle with a tree — be in the moment.”

Supported by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery, 30 Days Wild encourages individuals, families, schools and businesses to connect with nature on a daily basis during what many argue is the best month for wildlife spotting.

It could be going on a snail safari, eating your breakfast outdoors or closing your eyes to listen for bird song to more adventurous endeavours such as outdoor yoga or forest bathing.

This year’s participants will receive a special 10th anniversary pack, designed to make their 30 days even more fun.

Research has consistently highlighted the positive impact of nature on wellbeing.

A study found a significant increase in people’s health, happiness and connection to nature through participating in 30 Days Wild.

People reported feeling more relaxed, less stressed and with a greater motivation to protect wildlife, which lasted long after the campaign ended.

So why not get in touch with your wild side this summer? Sign up today and receive a Free pack in the post, plus lots of inspiration for activities. Visit bbowt.org.uk/30-days-wild