Care farming for mental health and wellbeing
We know that spending time outdoors is good for us. Our mental health and wellbeing is linked to green spaces, open air and the natural environment. Care farming is a briliant way for people to connect with nature and other people, especially those that might be isolated.
Care farms use farming and nature to benefit people, including improving mental health and wellbeing. A care farm is a calming environment, away from the pressures of everyday life. Care farming can help to release anxiety or stress and give people space to be themselves.
Through farming-related activity, such as animal care, mechanics or horticulture, people have the opportunity to participate in a meaningful way.
"We know that nature has huge benefits for people's mental health. What care farms do is not just to connect people and nature but to actually make that meaningful. People have the opportunity not just to be present, but to particpate."
Nicola Gitsham, Head of Social Prescribing, Personalised Care, NHS England and Improvement
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