Nature’s Remedy: How Outdoor Adventures Boost Wellbeing
As Mental Health Awareness Week unfolds, I find myself reflecting deeply on the profound impact of my recent three-week break from business to deal with lambing on our croft. This experience has reaffirmed the remarkable healing power of nature and animals on our mental wellbeing.
The Crofting Life: Challenges and Joys
Crofting life is a tapestry woven with challenges and joys. That difficult birth, resulting in the loss of a beautiful lamb underscores the intensity of emotions involved. Moments of loss are poignant, yet they are balanced by the exhilarating highs of bringing new life into the world—a testament to resilience and renewal.
My memories of lambing season bring to mind the resilience of my mother, who often struggled through the long, dark winter months. I recall her quiet strength as she tended to the sheep, eagerly awaiting the arrival of spring. It was during lambing time that I saw her come alive again, her spirit lifted by the energy of new life and the promise of warmer days ahead.
Finding Solace in Nature Amidst Exhaustion
Lambing is an all-consuming task, requiring round-the-clock vigilance. Despite the exhaustion, there were moments of respite—brief interludes when I stole away to our garden, seeking solace in the act of planting. The earth beneath my hands provided a grounding force, a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the potential for growth amid chaos.
The demands of lambing underscore the interconnectedness of life on the croft. Sheep, reliant on our care, become more than livestock—they are our companions through the seasons, teaching us the importance of patience and perseverance.
During this period, we’ve been blessed with exceptional weather, the sun casting its warm embrace upon our croft. Watching the little lambs frolic and bask in this radiant sunshine has been a truly uplifting experience—a reminder of life’s simple pleasures and the enduring beauty of the natural world.
While we have been blessed with exceptional weather and healthy lambs, I cannot ignore the plight of fellow farmers who faced earlier lambing dates and dreadful losses. The harsh weather conditions took a toll, leaving behind heartbreaking scenes of loss and devastation. Witnessing the struggles of other farmers serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of agriculture and the emotional toll it can take. It reinforces the importance of community support and resilience in times of adversity.
The Transformative Power of Nature and Animals
Research consistently highlights the positive impact of nature and animals on mental well-being. Whether it’s the soothing effect of green landscapes, the meditative rhythm of caring for animals, or the profound sense of connection with life’s cycles, the outdoors can be transformative.
Over the last 6 years our croft has evolved from a couple of pet pigs, to a flock of 30 ewes, 9 breeding pigs, a couple of Clydesdale horses and of course, the obligatory ducks and hens. For me, despite the struggle to make it pay for itself—it’s become a sanctuary. Here, amidst the tranquil beauty of nature, I find solace during turbulent times. The bond forged with our animals is not just about caretaking; it’s a reciprocal relationship that nurtures our souls.
Embracing Nature: Prioritizing Wellbeing
As Mental Health Awareness Week invites us to prioritise wellbeing, I encourage everyone to seek moments of connection with nature, however fleeting. Whether it’s a stroll in the park, time spent in the garden, or a visit to a nearby farm, let’s embrace the healing power of the outdoors. Let’s pause, breathe, and find comfort in the rhythms of the natural world.
In the symphony of life, let’s cultivate spaces of tranquillity and appreciation, where the beauty of existence—like a lamb in the sun—fills us with hope and resilience.