10 Health Reasons to Spend More Time in Nature

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to get lost in the daily grind. More than ever, we’re craving a deeper connection to the world around us—something beyond the glow of screens and the buzz of notifications. Nature is calling, and it’s not just about getting a breath of fresh air. It’s about reclaiming a sense of peace, balance, and well-being. Wendling Beck in Norfolk offers a unique space where nature and luxury meet and where you can reconnect with what really matters.

Wendling Beck: A Vision for the Future

Wendling Beck, located in the heart of Norfolk, isn’t just another nature reserve—it’s a bold reimagining of what our relationship with the land could look like. Spread across 2,000 acres of what used to be farmland, this project is all about letting nature do its thing. Rewilding means stepping back and allowing ecosystems to regenerate independently, and Wendling Beck is proving just how powerful that can be.

Tom and Laura, both actively involved in the Wendling Beck Project, are the visionary minds behind the creation of Wildscapes. Inspired by their commitment to environmental stewardship, they have designed these eco-friendly cabins to provide people with exclusive access to parts of the project. Through Wildscapes, they aim to set an example for future generations, emphasising the importance of prioritising the preservation of the natural world.

With focuses on sustainability and education, Wildscapes offers a harmonious blend of luxury and ecological awareness for those seeking comfort and enlightenment in a natural setting. The cabins serve as a gateway to the Wendling Beck Project, providing wildlife tours, conservation courses, and a chance to engage with the landscape. And if you need more reasons to book your wild escape, here’s ten:

10 Scientifically-Backed Benefits of Spending Time in Nature

1. Chill Out: Nature’s Stress-Busting Superpower
   Let’s face it, life is stressful. But nature has your back. Spending time outside drops your cortisol levels—the stress hormone that makes you feel frazzled. In fact, just 20 minutes in a natural setting can work wonders on your mood. A walk through Wendling Beck’s wildflower meadows? Instant calm.

2. Mind Boost: Nature as the Ultimate Mood Lifter
   Feeling a bit meh? Nature’s got the fix. Being outdoors is a proven mood booster, helping to reduce anxiety and depression. And here’s an interesting fact: hospital patients with a view of nature recover faster and need fewer painkillers. So before you pop another paracetamol, consider booking a cabin instead.

3. Get Creative: Nature as Your Muse
   Stuck in a creative rut? Step outside. Disconnecting from tech and getting into nature can boost your creativity by up to 50%. Four days in the wild without screens—like a proper nature detox—could be all you need to get those creative juices flowing again.

4. Move It: Nature Makes You More Active
   Nature naturally gets you moving, whether hiking, strolling, or exploring. This isn’t just about staying fit; it’s about feeling good from the inside out.

5. Power Up Your Immune System
   The diverse microbiomes in natural spaces like Wendling Beck strengthen your immune system, helping your body fight bugs. Plus, forest bathing—a Japanese practice that involves immersing yourself in the forest—has been shown to increase natural killer cells, which help protect against illness.

6. Focus Mode: Nature Sharpens Your Mind
   Struggling to concentrate? Nature can help you dial in. Spending time outside can improve your focus and cognitive function. Studies show children with ADHD find concentrating easier after playing in green spaces. Imagine what it could do for your work-from-home game.

7. Sleep Tight: Nature Helps You Rest Easy
   If counting sheep isn’t cutting it, try a dose of nature. Being outdoors helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to catch those Zs. Our cabins also have cloud-like beds and blackout blinds, so you can sleep soundly with nothing but the sound of the breeze and birdsong to lull you to sleep.

8. Social Vibes: Nature Brings People Together
   Nature isn’t just about solo time—it’s a social connector. Whether you’re bonding over a hike or meeting like-minded souls on a nature tour, the great outdoors is a natural icebreaker.

9. Stay Present: Nature Grounds You
   Ever feel like you’re living in fast-forward? Nature has a way of slowing things down. It’s the perfect setting for practising mindfulness—being fully present at the moment. Whether watching wildlife or just soaking up the scenery, nature helps you stay grounded.

10. Happy Place: Nature Just Makes You Feel Good
    Simply put, nature makes you happier. Research shows that people who live near green spaces are less likely to feel stressed or anxious. So if you don’t live near a green space, why not book in for a week-long cabin stay?

Wendling Beck is not just a haven for wildlife; it’s a sanctuary for people. The project's commitment to rewilding and conservation creates a space where visitors can experience the profound benefits of nature firsthand. Whether you’re staying in one of our cabins, learning about regenerative practices, or simply wandering through the landscape, the connection between personal well-being and the health of our environment becomes crystal clear.

In Norfolk, a county known for its vast skies and unspoiled beauty, Wendling Beck is a testament to nature's power to heal and inspire. As more people discover the scientifically backed benefits of spending time outdoors, projects like Wendling Beck will continue to play a crucial role in promoting environmental stewardship and personal well-being.

So, the next time you feel the world's weight on your shoulders, remember that nature is waiting for you—ready to offer its quiet, enduring wisdom and a reminder of the deep connection we all share with the earth. We look forward to seeing you soon…