I was reminded of this by two things earlier this week. First a press release from Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) popped up in my inbox. "Too many people are missing out on the benefits of getting active in England's woodlands," it said, "thinking they are only found in rural areas". Forestry minister Jim Knight explained otherwise.
"Some of our most cherished woodlands are on the doorsteps of cities and large towns," he said. He was promoting a Forestry Commission campaign on the health and fitness opportunities offered by Britain's woodlands.
Research indicates that exercising in woods and green spaces reduces stress levels, boosts mental wellbeing (note to self: organise woodland ramble as contribution to this year's Youth Work Week) and can speed recovery from illness. "It's easy to lose sight of the fact that much of our health and wellbeing depends on our environment and taking regular exercise," added Mr Knight.
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