Sunset on Walney

Sunset, Walney Island

Walney Island, one of the largest islands on the UK coast, was formed during the last ice age. During the late 1800's it went through a period of development as the Vickers shipyard in nearby Barrow in Furness grew. Today it is an area where the Government's indices of deprivation show it to be one of the least healthy places in the country.

Yet this is an island with fantastic beaches which host national and international kite and windsurfing competitions. An island with two large nature reserves, one managed by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, the other the RSPB and Natural England. An island with a strong community, new schools, farmland and a golf course.

But this is also an area with a history of industrial work and one where many retired workers live, whether in terraced and semi-detached homes or in one of the many residential caravan and prefabricated home sites across the island. Many residents take regular walks, using the extensive footpaths and tracks which are traffic free. So while the statistics may reflect ill health. This may be related to working lives rather than current activity.

Appreciating the stunning views across the Irish Sea or over the mountains of the Lake District, walking, observing the many seals, seabirds, waders and other wildlife are all integral to a mindful approach to maintaining health and improving wellbeing. Reflect on your own engagement with nature, do you appreciate the sunset, the smell of a seabreeze, the sound of grass swaying in the wind? If so then try to find more sense connections and use them as part of your daily routine.