We've made it through the 10 shortest weeks of the year! Longer days and gorgeous summer sunsets are on their way. Despite this, our days are still cold and our nights long, so why get outside this Winter? Research has highlighted the benefits of being outdoors for your cognitive health. Spending just as little as 20 minutes a day outside can drastically improve your mood, increase your concentration and lower your stress levels. Cultures across the world have always recognised the importance of spending time in nature. Te Huia, a previous long-term volunteer on Skomer Island shares her experience as a Māori woman and her connection to the natural world.

"Our wellbeing as a people, mentally, spiritually and physically, is intrinsically linked to the wellbeing of nature. If the natural world is not doing well then neither are we." - Te Huia

Closer to home, the natural world appears in many ancient texts. Within the Mabinogion wildlife is often key to storylines. Humans and animals ebb and flow into one another and the Welsh landscape plays an integral part of world building. The traditional Welsh folk song, 'Ar Lan Y Môr', is a love song for a lover across the sea. The author uses the sea and it's waves, rocks and flowers as a way of processing longing for a faraway lover. In my own experience, being outside, particularly in nature, can calm my mind and bring me clarity. 

Spending time in nature is not only essential for your mind but also your physical health. Walking under trees has been suggested to lower blood pressure and boost immunity. Exposing your face and arms to the sun will increase your Vitamin D uptake, which is important to seek during the Winter with our reduced daylight hours. Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in your body and you can get it for free from the sun! Getting outside also helps you move your body, whether that is strolling, bird spotting, running or commuting. So take a stroll on your lunch break or bask in the winter sun next time you pop to the shops. 

And finally, we mustn't forget our winter wildlife. January is full of life, despite its cold temperatures. Migrating birds travel to our mainland and coast to overwinter in our milder temperatures. From Fieldfares to flocks of Oyster catchers, we host many visitors. Ducks such as Wigeon, Shoveler and Pochard will frequent lakes and waders such as Dunlin, Turnstone and Redshank will pop up all along the coastline. Visit one of our wetland or coastal reserves to see what you can spot!

Our cities are also full of life this time of year. Many of our mammals are hibernating, but not our Foxes. Becoming increasingly active in urban areas, foxes are currently looking for their mates. On a cold night this month listen out for their howls as the males attempt to attract a female with their yipping.

There are a multitude of reasons to make sure you get outside during the last of these winter months. With spring on the way, we have much to look forward to but a clear mind and a surprising sighting may await you if you step outdoors. Although don't forget your jacket!