#4 – The Great Outdoors

‘There is no such thing as bad weather. Only unsuitable clothing.’ (Alfred Wainwright)

There is so much beauty to be enjoyed in the soft colours and rugged handsomeness of a British winter and immersing yourself in the natural world as often as possible is a good way to remember that. It is, after all, perfectly possible to enjoy our emerald landscape in all weathers, provided you eschew your Uggs if favour of hiking boots and skinny jeans for salopettes!

Whether your favourite green space is your back garden, a recreational field in the middle of an urban area or the untamed wilderness of a national park, getting out into the open air for a vigorous hike, a spot of leaf raking, or a brisk walk will put a spring in your step no matter how unappealing the idea seems, from the toasty warmth of your home. Just 30 minutes brisk exercise a day, combined with the positive effect of natural daylight on your brain’s serotonin levels can really give your mood a much-needed lift, so wrap up warm, add a good water proof jacket and head out of doors. After all, if you spend half the year waiting for the sun to shine in order to enjoy outdoor activities, the warmer months of a British summer are likely to prove a bitter disappointment.