INIDIVIDUALS

The cumulative impact of small individual steps can lead to significant positive change.

Evidence shows us that social connections help us to feel happier and more secure. Connecting with nature can ease feelings of stress and has been shown to reduce the impacts of loneliness. Getting outside and connecting with nature, can and give us a sense of purpose and place.  

You can:

  • Join your local climate network. Find out more here

  • Take a look at this nature almanac for year-round ideas. Find out more here

  • Get involved in some outdoor volunteering. Find out more here

  • Join a local Health Walk Group. Find our more here

  • Explore a local greenspace. Find out more here

STEP 1: CONNECT

To ourselves, each other and nature.

The five ways to wellbeing is a model is used by health practitioners to improve mental wellbeing. Below we have suggested some actions you can take within the model that are good for climate, nature and health.

STEP 2: BE ACTIVE

Get out in nature and be the change you wish to see.

Being active is great for your physical and mental health.  Some activities can also improve the health your local environment and the planet - but tread lightly and follow the outdoor access code. 

You can:

  • Walk or cycle sometimes and leave the car at home. Find out more here

  • Try a local green or blue health activity. Find your nearest here

  • Join a community garden or allotment, or grow your own. Find your nearest here

  • Be creative in nature. Find out more here

STEP 3: TAKE NOTICE

Of everyone and everything, no matter how small.

Take some time to enjoy the moment and the environment around you. Studies have  shown that savouring  ‘the moment’ can help you to feel more positive about life. It can also help to identify any changes happening around you and take action. 

You can:

  • Take notice how you feel after time in nature. Find out more here 

  • Share your Highland weather and climate stories. Find out more here 

  • Reduce your energy use and carbon emissions. Find out more here 

  • Reduce your food waste. Find out more here 

  • Re-think, Reduce, re-use and re-cycle. Find out more here 

  • Shop local  

STEP 4: GIVE

Your time, your love, your expertise, your energy to what is important. 

Studies have shown that people who help others and nature are more likely to rate themselves as happy. Helping nature leads to feelings of self-reward and a sense of purpose, improving self-esteem. It can also inspire others to take action. 

You can:

  • Make a Wildflower Meadow. Find out more here 

  • Take part in a citizen science project to support nature. Find out more here  

  • Get involved in some outdoor volunteering. Find out more here 

  • Litter pick or Beach Clean. Find out more here 

  • Become a member or join a campaign of an environmental group. Find out more here 

STEP 5: KEEP LEARNING

About climate, nature and health to make informed choices and build a greater understanding of others.

We're always learning new things – often without realising it. Feeling like you're learning and developing can boost your self-esteem. And sometimes, setting goals can help you to feel more productive and more in control of your life

  • Join a High Life Highland Countryside Ranger Event. Find out more here

  • Sign up to our newsletters. Find out more here

  • Attend an event, seminar or join a campaign

  • Sign up for a course

  • Be prepared for impact of adverse weather. Find out more about making a plan here ; or sign up for flood warnings here

  • A wide range of information about climate change is available here

  • Share your experiences so that others can be inspired and learn.

MAKE YOUR PLEDGE