Dr. Kate’s connection with nature took on a new dimension during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Being confined to four walls encouraged her to explore and appreciate her garden like never before.

With many of us being stuck inside, it was a time that was important to make the most of any outdoor space that we could access. 

Kate began to appreciate the seasons during a slower period. Something we rarely get to do in the modern age. 

Q: Can you describe the moment when you first realised that nature was playing a role in your healing, either mentally or physically? 

"I think I really started to appreciate the healing aspects of nature when the COVID pandemic happened. I was lucky enough to be in lockdown with a garden, and I felt so incredibly lucky to have had access to a green space throughout that unprecedented time.

Everything slowed down, and I was able to stop and appreciate the seasons more."

We can take a lot from Kate’s story and conscious efforts to slow down. The fast-moving nature of our jobs, information and careers can often leave us overlooking important aspects of life.

The conservation enthusiast talks about her organic connection with earth. 

Q: Did you consciously seek out nature, or did it happen
more organically? 

"For me, it happened more organically. I was doing my usual routine of spending time outdoors, but it really changed for me when I started slowing down. When I stopped being in a rush to get from A to B, when I slowed down and really connected to the earth."

Physically and mentally, nature has been a cornerstone of
Dr. Kate's well-being.

The natural world not only keeps her active but also provides a crucial balance to her tech-driven professional life. She also opens up how just one day spent away from the outdoors can affect her negatively.

Q: In what specific ways has nature contributed to your
mental and physical well-being?

"Physically, nature keeps me active. I love spending time walking, hiking, and exploring, and I love the natural movement that comes with this. I struggle to get to a gym as I can find sessions quite boring, but on a walk or a scramble in a forest, there's always something new to explore and see.

Mentally, it has always contributed to my well-being, but I have definitely become aware of this over the last few years. If I don’t get outside for even a day, I can definitely feel the negative effects on mental health."

Enjoying Nature Beyond Professional Pursuits

Gardening and mindfulness have become essential practices for Kate, providing her with a deeper connection to the earth and a sense of tranquillity.

Q: What specific activities or practices in nature have been most beneficial for you? 

"I love gardening and mindfulness activities. For mindfulness, I really just enjoy slowing down and being really aware of what is around me. Sometimes even spending a minute or two looking up at the treetops while taking a moment to breathe really helps to calm my mind. Gardening not only helps to be physically connected to the earth, but it always helps me to connect with the rhythm of the planet."

Overcoming Challenges

Despite her love for sunny climates, the well-travelled doctor has learned to appreciate all weather conditions, finding beauty in even the coldest, crisp mornings.

Q: Have you faced any challenges or obstacles in maintaining a connection with nature? How did you overcome them?

"Absolutely. I love the warm feeling of the sun rays and the endorphins that the sun gives you.

As well as being hugely passionate about African wildlife, the weather is always a huge draw for me to go to tropical countries! This makes it hard when I live in the U.K… and it’s still a challenge when each winter comes and getting myself outdoors can be a challenge. However, I still make sure I get out, even if it is for a small amount of time."

Balancing a Tech-Driven Life

 Despite Kate’s reliance on technology, she still manages to make a purposeful effort to maintain her relationship with nature.

Admitting that some days she’s stuck in her flat for a whole day. This goes to show, that sometimes our schedule makes it difficult for us to connect with
people face-to-face and to get amidst the outside world.

This is why Kate’s story is interesting, she balances both
sides of her life ensuring that nature is a must.

Q: Outside of your life outdoors, do you have a fast-paced life in the midst of technology?

"Oh yes! My job is a fast-paced, client-focused,
tech-driven role. I work remotely which I love, but this often means that I am
glued to my laptop all day and have to get myself outside, otherwise I can spend the whole day in my flat!"

Advice for Others 

For those considering incorporating more nature into their lives, Dr. Kate offers heartfelt advice.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who is considering
incorporating more nature into their life for healing purposes?

"I would say to try a few things such as walking, gardening or mindfulness.

Be kind to yourself and don’t expect it to work miracles immediately. Take your time with whatever you choose to try, and be kind to yourself. I would also recommend trying nature connection practices alone and with someone who you feel you can learn from."