Embracing nature: How outdoor activities can support new mothers

Exploring the benefits of outdoor activities for new mothers and their babies

Embracing nature: How outdoor activities can support new mothers
Becoming a mother is a profound journey filled with joy, but it can also bring feelings of isolation and anxiety, especially for those who are new to motherhood. Many women, like Paloma Espindola, have found solace and support in nature, transforming their experiences through outdoor activities.

Paloma’s story is a testament to how connecting with the environment can foster community and well-being among new mothers.

The challenges of new motherhood

Paloma, originally from Aberdeen, faced significant challenges when she moved to Thailand with her three-month-old daughter, Oona.

Being away from her support network, she grappled with postpartum anxiety, feeling overwhelmed in a foreign environment. “I felt quite lonely out there in Thailand,” she recalls. This experience highlighted the importance of community and support during the early stages of motherhood.

Creating a nurturing community

After returning to Aberdeen, Paloma was inspired to create Nurture the Wild, a project designed to connect mothers and their babies with nature. Her initiative offers outdoor sessions where mothers can bond with their children while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the natural world. “This project has been life-changing for so many mothers, helping them tackle isolation and form meaningful friendships,” Paloma explains.

Activities that promote well-being

Paloma’s sessions, such as the weekly ‘Wild Mummas’ gatherings, are structured to provide both relaxation and engagement. Starting with a calming walk, mothers can unwind while their babies nap. Following the walk, participants gather in a bell tent filled with natural resources for exploration. Paloma emphasizes the importance of shared experiences, stating, “I also have a special soup for the babies so everyone has lunch together.” These activities not only foster a sense of community but also encourage mothers to embrace the outdoors.

Encouraging outdoor exploration

Paloma’s approach to outdoor activities extends beyond just mothers and infants. She also runs groups for toddlers, allowing them to engage in exploratory play. Activities like making mud pies and crafting with natural materials help children connect with their environment. Paloma notes, “I love seeing the joy on the little ones’ faces when they see something for the first time in nature.” This connection to the outdoors is vital for both mental health and development.

Building confidence in new mothers

Many mothers who attend Paloma’s sessions report feeling more confident about taking their babies outside. The supportive environment encourages them to overcome their anxieties and rediscover their love for nature. Paloma shares, “There are some mums who have told me that they were quite outdoorsy before but were anxious about taking their baby outside. But they’ve said that my sessions have given them the confidence to get back outside and do what they love.” This transformation is crucial for mental well-being.

Looking ahead: Expanding the vision

Paloma’s vision for Nurture the Wild is ambitious. She hopes to expand her project by acquiring a woodland space, allowing her to run daily sessions and reach even more families. Her dedication to fostering connections between mothers and nature is evident in her work, and she encourages others to embrace the outdoors as a source of healing and joy.

Practical tips for new mothers

For new mothers hesitant to venture outdoors, Paloma offers practical advice: “Start small by going to your local park or nature reserve or even have a sit in your garden. Even if you just take a five-minute walk and a sit on the bench, you’ll feel so much better for getting some fresh air and some Vitamin D.” These small steps can lead to significant improvements in mental health and well-being.

In conclusion, the journey of motherhood can be challenging, but by embracing nature and building supportive communities, new mothers can find the strength and confidence they need to thrive. Paloma Espindola’s story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of the outdoors in nurturing both mothers and their children.