Forest therapy, tree meditation and similar outdoor wellbeing-enhancing activities are increasing in popularity across the world. There is a wealth of evidence demonstrating that being in nature makes us feel good. I have always loved being outside. Growing up in the Aberdeenshire countryside there was a wealth of wild green spaces in which my siblings and I would roam. We created imaginary worlds in the twisted canopies of trees, played hide and seek among the bales of a nei

From the perspective of a mental health nurse. Trigger warning: the content of this post may be upsetting to some. Over the years I have heard many concerning opinions about suicide, and I want to give you the inside story. I can't speak on behalf of other mental health professionals, but this is the truth as I see it. Sometimes death by suicide should be viewed in the same light as death by cancer. Bear with me. Depression/cancer is diagnosed after a lengthy and insidious ba

Today I chose to do as little as possible . . . Why? The short answer is because I felt like it. The long answer is, because I know the value in listening to myself (mind and body) and respecting my limitations. I also know the value of silence and reflection. So today I woke up and decided to do as little work as possible. I spent time quietly in my home with Bunty (world's worst puppy), I went for a walk and I did some laundry. Doesn't sound like anything special right?? We

I'm going to use this platform to (over) share about my personal and professional highs and lows, and everything to do with mental health. “It's Valentine's Day 2019 and I'm more single (and broke) then ever.” Just a brief disclaimer before I start . . . I am no writer. It has taken me a long time to start this blog. I'm pretty dyslexic and the thought of putting my thoughts onto my laptop absolutely terrifies me! But oddly, I enjoy it at the same time. So, in advance, forgiv