Nature-deficit disorder

You don’t need to summit a mountain or swim the English Channel to reap the benefits of nature. Sometimes, just being near trees, water, or even a park can make all the difference to how we feel – and perhaps even how much pain we’re able to endure

To mark our 40th birthday, we launched a landmark survey investigating how nature affects mental wellbeing. Is pottering around outside better than pounding the treadmill at the g ym? Is a walk in the park as good as weeding your garden? Which British flower is the best mood-booster? The results are in…

All this month’s best buys, news and must-know health and wellbeing tips

We can’t always control what happens to us, but we can manage how we deal with challenges. Our expert guide will help you survive (and even thrive) when things get tough

Our schools can–and must–lead the way in teaching the next generation the incalculable value of the natural world, contends Roger Morgan-Grenville

Laughter is more than just an expression of joy and humour. A good laugh increases your oxygen intake, stimulating your organs and decreasing blood pressure. It can diffuse anger and even help you to