The Wellbeing through Nature program concluded in 2024 after a WHOPPING:
101 core activities
1304 attendances
including:
This program was supported by the ACT Government under the ACT Health Promotion Grants Program.
October is Mental Health Month in the ACT. It’s also mid-spring, with warmer weather enticing us to spend more time outside. It’s the perfect time to deepen your connection with nature and experience the many wellbeing benefits.
“Nature Connection” is the psychological measure of the quality of our relationship and emotional attachment with nature.
Nature connection has been shown to:
When we connect with nature in a mindful, embodied way we feel the benefits; more than those experienced during physical activity or spending time in green spaces alone!
Global research indicates the non-human world benefits too, as connection with nature also leads to increased stewardship behaviours and improved environmental outcomes. In this way, nature connection supports a mutually beneficial relationship of reciprocity.
What’s Involved?
It’s FREE to participate – the commitment is your time. Please review the following key dates.
Spaces in this October challenge are limited so register now to avoid missing out.
Researchers from the University of Canberra conducted a mid-point evaluation of the program, including feedback from 168 participants.
The results were overwhelmingly positive.
94% of respondents felt the program helped them to connect to the local environment
75% agreed that the program helped them to feel more connected to others
91% felt the program was good for their mental health, and
94% thought the program was good for their overall wellbeing
This program is supported by the ACT Government under the ACT Health Promotion Grants Program.
For Aboriginal people, the connection with the land is difficult to put into words. Getting out onto country is a healing process both physically and mentally…Caring for country is more than natural resource management and participating in Landcare activities. It is a spiritual reconnection and revitalisation which is vital for our wellbeing,” said Wally Bell, Ngunawal Elder and Board Member, Landcare ACT.
The Wellbeing through Nature program taps into the transformative and healing potential of nature. Aspects of the program include:
That focus on appreciation of beauty and diversity whilst exploring mindfulness activities in restorative surroundings.
Participants will work alongside existing Landcare groups to conserve, restore and protect nature. This may include plantings, monitoring waterways etc. Caring for nature is also an act of self-care.
Working with plants on a more personal level to support wellbeing.
Partaking in propagation activities to cultivate native plants for habitat restoration projects.
Programs are open to all Canberrans and will be offered free of charge or at a low cost. Specialised programs will be developed to engage participants of diverse ages and backgrounds (including youth and older persons).
Visit the calendar for details on events and activities.
Landcare is more than just caring for the environment. It is about improving the wellbeing of Canberrans. I can’t emphasise enough on the importance of Landcare, especially for the culturally and linguistically diverse community,” said Rajvir Kaur, Landcare volunteer – North Belconnen.
If you would like to hear about all the latest from Wellbeing through Nature program, please complete the form below.
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