If you've ever visited a WWT reserve, or even your local river or pond, you'll know there's something special about water. Which is why we are busy researching the impact our “blue” spaces have on our health and wellbeing.
We’re using our wetland centres to evaluate the effects spending time in wetlands has on individual and societal health. Our research at WWT Slimbridge has shown for the first time that nature-based interventions in a wetland environment can contribute significantly to the treatment of anxiety and depression.
Whether it’s the crash of a wave, the lap of a tidal estuary of the gentle stillness of a shimmering lake, water has the power to inspire and calm us. Human beings have been connected to wetlands throughout the history of civilisation. But is our connection about more than survival? We think so…
"The happiness from the wildfowl and the love of life with WWT and the whoopers really can bring an essence of calm.”
READ MORE"Nature gave me perspective and positive boosts. It also connects me to the reality of life."
READ MOREHave you had a positive experience of being in wetlands that you’d like to share? Send your stories to waterlife@wwt.org.uk
There are lots of ways you can take action today to help reverse the decline of wetlands.
However you decide to spend your time with us you’ll be helping wetland nature thrive.