Less hibernation, more sensation
In the sometimes bleak Scottish winter, it can be tempting to become a homebody and shelter from the elements. Whilst it is good to rest at any time of year, it is important to keep getting out and spend time connecting with nature when possible.
Making that first move to leave a cosy spot, especially when the weather may not seem very inviting, can be quite a challenge, but the rewards are well worth the effort. It doesn't have to be for very long, from five to fifteen minutes to start, but even this amount of time can bring lasting benefits.
When I recently found myself starting to feel groggy and drowsy in that afternoon slump, I followed the advice of my colleagues and ventured out onto our reserve. It reminded me just how fortunate we are to be on this wetland. The cool fresh air re-awakened and revived, as I made my way around our trails, engaging my senses, listening to the soundscape of whooping whooper swans, a mixture of tree sparrows, goldfinch and chaffinch busily foraging, then a crescendo of barnacle geese taking off from a nearby field to find new shoots for grazing.
I ducked into one of the hides and caught a glimpse of azure as I was blessed with a sighting of kingfisher. This really brightened my day. I lingered, on the lookout for more wildlife. I noticed a great spotted woodpecker drilling away on the damp wood of a tree on the embankment, as well as a little grebe diving for fish, then preening afterwards.
It is amazing what you can encounter here in a relatively short span of time, and how quickly the time passes when in natural spaces. Taking some centring breaths, mindful of the scents of earth and water, I made my way back to the centre, re-invigorated and grateful for the opportunity to boost my wellbeing.
Feature photo by Alex Hillier.
