Susan Helmore

Ten positives to walking

I suggest to Mr 11 that we go for a walk so off out the gate we go. Fortunate for us we have a hill within walking distance from home. It’s incredible, with views from the top of the town, lake and mountains. We are walking up the track, puffing a bit, getting warmer, when … Read more

Nature’s garden

It is mid-winter, but here in Wanaka, it still feels a bit like Autumn with few frosts, little snow and some very mild days. One of my very favourite past times is being in my vegetable garden. Even in mid-winter you can find me most days pulling something from the ground or picking something to … Read more

15 benefits that being in nature can have on your health

There is a lot of evidence to show that spending time in nature is good for you, it makes you happy and healthy. Being in nature can: make you more creative lower your blood pressure help you be more attentive reduce stress reduce anxiety reduce depression improve immune function reduce experiences of pain make you … Read more

Sounds in nature – water

It’s easy to get distracted by thoughts as you walk in nature. But there is always something to listen to. Today I listened to the sounds of water. It was a beautifully calm morning as I sat by the lake and focussed on the repetitive lapping of the water against the rocks. This was extremely … Read more

A mindful walk

Here is something to do today, go for a mindful walk by yourself. Let’s keep it simple. Schedule 15mins in your day and stick to it, rain or shine. Put some comfy shoes on and dress for the weather. Choose somewhere close by and easy to get to. A park, a reserve, a track by … Read more

Walking in the rain.

There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.   -A Swedish saying My wander by the river turned wetter and wetter the more I walked. It was beautiful, with the grey sky, the shining leaves and the drops on the river. I was prepared with my rain jacket. It sounded like I … Read more

Wise words by Anne Frank

“The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature and God. Because only then does one feel that all is as it should be and that God wishes to see people happy, amidst the simple beauty of nature. … Read more

Family Tramping

School had finished for the year so what better way to unwind than to unpack the school bag and pack the tramping pack. Our much awaited family adventure to walk the Milford Track was finally here. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience the wilderness area of Fiordland National Park that goes … Read more

Green in the City

I had a trip to Invercargill for work this week. It was a long drive, busy roads and many clients booked in. I was tired and felt like having a sleep, or eating lots of sugar. I had an hour break between sessions and I found myself driving to Thomsons Bush. Wow, what a gem. … Read more