The Calming Benefits of Birdwatching
This month is Stress Awareness Month. To mark it, we want to share some of the stress-relieving benefits of feeding, watching and enjoying the birds (and other nature) in your garden!
More and more of us are suffering from mental health and wellbeing issues related to stress and anxiety. Many believe this is due to the persistent presence of modern technology in our ever moving, 24/7 world and these issues can also be exacerbated after the long and dark winter months.
However, with spring comes more opportunities to enjoy nature, and you really don't need to go far to immerse yourself in it! In the UK, our local green areas and gardens are home to many creatures and natural delights to enjoy, including wild birds...
The mental health benefits of birdwatching are well reported. It allows us switch off from the modern world and connect with nature. Even if just for a moment, this can re-boot our brains, giving us some much-needed reprieve from daily stresses. Here are some of the reasons why.
A Calming Influence
Recent studies have suggested that spending time in and around nature is a great way to combat stress and to help you relax. Birdwatching can be very meditative. It provides the opportunity to spend time in a quiet space - with no distractions. Plus, sitting and watching the birds forces us to be mindful. So why not use it as an opportunity to turn off your mobile phone and really focus on the here and now?
Nature-Deficit Disorder
Humans evolved to rely on nature to regulate our moods and behaviour, so getting out into the fresh air for a walk in the park; or just into your garden, can have a powerful impact on your body and mind.
Gaining Perspective
Have you ever watched a bird build its nest, a fledgling taking its first flight, or a mother bird try to protect its young from predators? These daily dramas, showcasing real life/death implications, may just put whatever is causing you stress into perspective.
Connecting with Loved Ones
Birdwatching is a great way to connect with family and friends - as it's a family-friendly activity which can be enjoyed by all ages. It provides the opportunity to share, discuss, and compare what you see in your gardens - providing a wonderful, shared experience.
Meditation
The benefits of meditation are well documented, and it has many parallels to bird watching. Both activities force you to be quiet, sit still, and eliminate distractions. Plus, as you watch the birds, even if it is just from your window, your mind will naturally wander, giving you time to process your busy day.
A Change of Scenery
Although birdwatching is often enjoyed from the comfort of your home, it also provides an opportunity to get out and about. Whether a short trip to a nearby park, a wander around a nature reserve, or a walk further afield in the countryside, a change of scenery will inevitably provide a distraction from daily stresses - as well as the opportunity to see different types of wild birds in their natural setting.
Do Good to Feel Good!
Humanity's impact on nature over the last 200 years has been monumental, and birds are no exception. With less wild spaces and more negative environmental-impacts, birds have come to rely more and more on supplementary food. However, it's not just about feeding the birds but also cleaning the places where we feed them - to reduce to spread of deadly diseases. A regular cleaning routine should entail a weekly clean of your feeder, with soap and warm water, as well as a regular supply of quality seed and feed. Knowing you're doing something good for the wildlife in your garden will also make you feel good!
Physical Benefits
Birdwatching encourages people to get out into their local community and explore parks and woodlands, and it can have physical benefits - even if you’re just going out into your garden. Taking time to walk around the lawn or to clean and replace the food in your bird feeder gives purpose and a regular (but easy) physical activity to keep your mind healthy and your body active.
Entertainment
Last, but not least, birdwatching can be highly entertaining. When you stop and take the time to really look, you'll see that birds have fascinating lives, dramas and interactions that are a joy to behold. Be prepared to smile and laugh out loud at the daily avian antics that are going on right in front of you!