Health scheme hopes to restore link between people and woodlands
Woodland walking could be the best kind of medicine. Photo: chrisangle
Doctors across Wales are prescribing woodland walking under a new scheme to treat conditions such as depression and heart problems.
The Aber Actif Woods scheme is being run in Mid and South Wales, and encourages people to take to the great outdoors after doctors were urged by the Forestry Commission to use its “natural health service”.
Following the launch of a 16-week winter programme, the project aims to develop a broader programme of activities across Wales in the future.
Nick Gibbs, who runs magazine Living Woods, explains woodland walking is much more beneficial than taking a stroll in your local park.
“Woodlands are much more varied, quiet, and closer to nature away from everyday life and day-to-day existence,” he says.