5 Ways To Bring Nature Closer If You Live In A City

We’re lucky, because we live in a suburban area now, surrounded by parks, the river and the beautiful Surrey hills within just a few miles drive.

But I used to live in cities when I was younger and had no family. As much as I loved the convenience of living in a big city with the career  I wanted, going out on the weekends, studying and just generally enjoying a very different and busy life – I always missed nature. High-rises and busy streets can create a sense of disconnection from the natural world, making it challenging to find peace, isn’t it?

Long walks in the park, day outs on the countryside or even walking the dog are very beneficial both emotionally, physically and psychologically. Apart from trips to the seaside and to working farms there’s some other, less obvious things you can do to be reconnected to nature.

1. Guerrilla gardening

Or maybe just help some friends out with gardening jobs. There are a lot of Facebook groups and council sites for people wanting to do some gardening, wanting to make their town or city greener and healthier.

Guerrilla gardening is a bold, rebellious act of planting flowers, trees, and vegetables in neglected urban spaces. This grassroots movement aims to beautify environments and promote green living in cities often stifled by concrete. Advocates believe that by transforming abandoned lots and vacant sidewalks into literal mini gardens, they can inspire community involvement and awareness of environmental issues. With little more than a seed and some soil, guerrilla gardeners reclaim urban areas and create pockets of life. 

2. Get an allotment

This is of course a little bit of a commitment but it has lots of benefits. You’re not only gardening, you’re producing food and it can be a great hobby. It saves money for you too. It’s very social and educational as well: you can make friends with your allotment neighbours, you can take the whole family so children can learn how food is being produced.

Getting an allotment offers numerous benefits that go beyond just growing your own food. Firstly, it provides a rewarding escape into nature, allowing you to cultivate a connection with the earth. The satisfaction of harvesting fresh produce can greatly enhance your well-being and reduce stress. Additionally, managing an allotment encourages physical activity, promoting a healthier lifestyle. Plus you can be part of a great, like-minded community who share your passion for gardening! Making new friends? Lastly, growing your own fruits and vegetables can lead to significant savings and the assurance of organic produce. 

3. Make your own urban oasis

Turn your balcony, patio or even indoor conservatory into your own mini oasis. Buy some nice plants, lovely garden furniture and add your own taste and style to it. Nothing’s better than having a little oasis on your own.  One of the simplest ways to invite nature into your life is by creating a green space within your home. You don’t need a backyard to enjoy the benefits of plants. Houseplants like snake plants, pothos, or peace lilies can purify the air and they make everything look calmer and homier. If you have limited sunlight, consider low-light options or even outdoor plants that thrive in shade. For those with a balcony or patio, transforming it into a mini-garden: with herbs, flowers, or even small trees to enjoy the sights and scents of nature.

4. Pick your own

Just outside of London you can find a lot of family friendly, little working farms and orchards, where you can pick seasonal fruits and vegetables. Lovely summer fruits from June till August or pumpkin in autumn. It’s fun, it’s cheap and you can take the children too. Get your freezer and preserving jars ready! 

There’s something special about picking your own fruits and vegetables. The experience itself is both refreshing and fulfilling. Not only do you get to enjoy fresh, often organic produce, but you also support local farmers and the community. Bringing your family or friends along can make it even more enjoyable, creating lasting memories as you laugh and share in the experience. 

5. Volunteer

Seek out activities that connect you with nature, even if they are urban-adapted. Join local hiking clubs, volunteer for tree-planting initiatives, or participate in community clean-up efforts. You can actively protect nature: join volunteer communities to tidy up green areas, beaches or riversides. Lots of parks are always looking for volunteers, not only gardeners but other skilled people too for various permanent or temporary positions. Dedicate your skills and time if you can. Engaging in these activities not only enriches your connection with nature but also fosters a sense of community. Even urban gardening projects can help you immerse yourself in green activities while cultivating relationships with fellow nature enthusiasts.