Spending time in nature offers a range of benefits for both our physical and mental health.
Being in natural surroundings has been linked to reduced stress levels, improved mood, and enhanced creativity. It also encourages physical activity, which can improve overall fitness as well as exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep patterns and vitamin D production.
Getting outside fosters feelings of connection and gratitude. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through a park, a bike ride or taking part in a woodcraft activity, time spent in nature rejuvenates the mind, body, and spirit, promoting a sense of balance and harmony in life.
Here at developmentplus we appreciate these benefits and where possible we provide lots of activities for our staff and the people who take part in our projects to spend time outside.
![IMG-20240423-WA0011](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240423-WA0011.jpg)
![IMG-20240326-WA0003](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240326-WA0003.jpg)
![IMG-20240326-WA0006](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240326-WA0006.jpg)
Team Building Retreat
The team at Project Compass had the opportunity to take some time out from their very busy and demanding days to immerse themselves in the quiet of the countryside.
Stuart hosted his first Workplace Retreat for Becky, Sue, CJ, Andy, Vicky and Temi at White House Farm, Billinghay.
Stuart started with an hours mindfulness to ease the group into the day. They then had the opportunity to try Shamanic Drumming in the woods, spend some time foraging and finished with a relaxing Gong Bath to end the day.
![IMG-20240423-WA0009](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240423-WA0009.jpg)
![IMG-20240423-WA0007](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240423-WA0007.jpg)
![IMG-20240326-WA0007](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240326-WA0007.jpg)
![IMG-20240423-WA0008](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240423-WA0008.jpg)
Wellbeing day at Hill Holt Wood
Ian arranged a wellbeing day on 26 March at Hill Holt Wood for the people that attend our STEPS project.
Stuart led the group on a mindfulness walk in nature. The group then had an opportunity to make some pots with Clare from our Better Together project. They also tried natural fire setting and shelter building.
The group had a lovely lunch and time to relax and enjoy each others company.
![IMG-20240326-WA0004](https://developmentplus.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG-20240326-WA0004.jpg)