Residents and workers in London looking to reduce their stress levels and get closer to nature are being encouraged to visit London Wetlands Centre this October. To mark World Mental Health Day on 10th October, the conservation charity is offering half price admission every Wednesday* throughout the month to help raise awareness of the benefits of being in nature on our wellbeing.
Tapping into the “Wellbeing Wednesday” concept embraced by many businesses, local employers are also being encouraged to allow staff to take some time out and de-stress at the wetlands.
Increasing numbers of studies are showing the benefits of time spent in nature. Research shows that people who are more connected with nature are usually happier in life and have lower levels of poor mental health; in particular lower depression and anxiety levels.1 A two-hour “dose” of nature a week significantly boosts health and wellbeing, recent research found and Walks taken by people in UK woodlands were also recently estimated to save £185m a year in mental health costs.
Over a third of the world’s wetlands have disappeared since 1970. As well as providing tranquil surroundings and supporting biodiversity, they play an incredibly important role in the fight against climate change as they absorb so much carbon. By visiting the centre, buying food from the café or gifts from the shop at the centre, visitors are directly contributing to protecting, restoring and creating healthy wetlands all over the world.
Lisa Woodward, general manager of WWT London Wetland Centre said: “London Wetland Centre is a hidden gem and many local people aren’t even aware that it exists. Our first-time visitors are often very surprised by the scale and size of the centre especially as it’s so close to the city. This World Mental Health Day, we’re encouraging Londoners to escape in the city and sample the incredibly calming and peaceful environment here at the wetlands to help boost their mental health. And what’s more, visitors can be assured that their entry fee will directly contribute to saving wetlands – one of the world’s most threatened habitats.”
David Attenborough opened the centre in 2000 and said: “It’s sensational, an extra lung for Londoners, and right in the middle of London.”
