In the last decade, the human race has become a majority-urban species. In fact, 2018 figures from the United Nations predict that by 2050, 70% of us will live in urban areas.

Since that report was published, coronavirus and national lockdowns have seen many of us craving open space and the freedom of the natural world.

Remote working has reconnected us with the beauty on our doorsteps and prompted a rethink in what we deem desirable in our properties – for some, commutability has been demoted below a large garden or an outdoor office space.

The importance of the natural world – and its links to mental wellbeing – have been acknowledged for some time.

Next month, Mental Health Awareness Week will concentrate on the theme of “nature”.

Here’s a look at how to incorporate nature into your spring and summer, and the benefits it could have on your emotional wellbeing.

1. Make the most of the green spaces in your urban area

If you live in a built-up area, coronavirus lockdowns may have altered your view of where you live.

Whether you made greater use of the gardens and parks available to you, or lamented the lack of green space, finding nature locally is set to be an increasingly large issue. In 1950, only 30% of the global population lived in urban areas; by 2050, that figure will be 70%.

Source: UN World Urbanization Prospects 2018 report

In the shorter term, mid-pandemic, meeting friends and family outdoors and in nature, is deemed safer in most situations. While British weather doesn’t always make that easy, increased use of outdoor areas might be here to stay.

Green space in urban environments increases biodiversity, has a positive effect on mental health and can redress the balance in deprived areas where private gardens aren’t the norm and green space is at a premium.

Across the world, urban planners are acknowledging and tackling these issues. From rooftop gardens to parks and wildlife corridors, our urban spaces are set to become greener and more sustainable.

As the country reopens, make the most of the outdoor spaces near you.

2. Get out into your garden

Whether you live in an urban or rural location, if your property has a garden, you will have felt the benefits of it more acutely during the pandemic. Lockdowns have been tough but an outdoor space in which to exercise and get fresh air provided a mental boost for many.

If you have a newfound appreciation for your garden, now is a great time to get it summer-ready. There are several ways to do this, dependent on what you intend to use it for.

According to a Horticultural Trades Association study, 80% of us have access to a private garden. You might use yours as a place to relax, to grow plants and flowers, to feed and encourage wildlife, to entertain family and friends, or to grow fruit and vegetables.

Use the spring to create an outdoor space to relax and entertain. Watch the angle of the sun throughout the day and create suntraps and shaded areas, possibly even undercover. You might also consider a firepit. This will allow for summer days and nights outside, whatever the weather.

Set aside other spots for growing fruit and vegetables and consider leaving one area to grow naturally. Add wild grass seed and create a small patch of meadow that will attract wildflowers, bees, and insects to your garden, as well as a splash of colour.

Make the most of your garden this spring and you could improve your outdoor space, as well as your emotional and physical wellbeing.

3. The importance of outdoor exercise

Gardening isn’t the only form of outdoor exercise. Jogging, outdoor swimming, and walking your dog could all get you out into nature.

Since 2018, NHS Shetland – in partnership with the RSPB – has been prescribing nature walks and birdwatching as ways to improve emotional wellbeing and mental health. As the roadmap out of lockdown grants us increased freedoms, you might get out into the natural world around you.

Forestry England encourages participation in forest bathing, a Japanese practice known as “shinrin yoku”. It also provides a handy map to help you find a forest local to you. The practice involves mindfulness, meditation, and an appreciation of the sights and sounds of nature.

With over 40 designated National Trails in England, Wales, and Scotland alone, covering over 3,000 miles of stunning countryside, a UK walking holiday could provide another great opportunity for blowing last year’s cobwebs away.

With routes spanning mountains, moorlands, and rugged coastal paths, there is something for everyone.

Staycations are set to be more popular than ever this summer. But with over 3,000 miles to choose from, it should be easy to beat the crowds, while aiding a local economy and keeping mentally and physically fit.