Lots of people are wary of going to see a counsellor, a therapist, a shrink. They have visions of the tough New York shrinks seen in movies. They think it’s not for them. They don’t need help. They don’t want to drag up their past. Counselling has definitely improved my life. I went for severalContinue reading “Are my teeth still there?”
Author Archives: hcpowell77
What do you notice?
The ants are under our patio again, and their excavations have left sand near the garage door. Eating my lunch, I watch a flock of sparrows descend to enjoy some boisterous dust baths. I’m glad I didn’t sweep away the sand. When I burnt out, I learned to listen to my body and notice whatContinue reading “What do you notice?”
Why does nature make us happy?
Here’s a bit of (light) science. I think it helps to know that what you are doing to improve your life, however small, will make a difference. Believing something will make a positive difference is very powerful. So here goes… A study by Lyubomirsky* showed that 50% of your happiness is genetic. Your environment makesContinue reading “Why does nature make us happy?”
Lime green whatchamacallit?!
In the last week or so, have you seen these lime green plants springing up at the side of the road? Every year I see them and think WOW, now what are they called again? This year was no different. I checked in my wildflower guide and was reminded they are alexanders. I am determinedContinue reading “Lime green whatchamacallit?!”
Bring the outside in this Easter
I have more than 100 houseplants as I love being surrounded by the sight, smell and textures of flowers and greenery. In addition, I look for other, easy ways to bring the delights of the natural world into my house. This is especially important in colder months when I am outside less. I’d like toContinue reading “Bring the outside in this Easter”
Skipping into Spring
Last weekend I was lucky enough to see flocks of hundreds of birds (Goldfinches?) feeding on Millet seed heads in a field. It was a wondrous sight, and the chattering, melodic sound filled the air and followed me as I reluctantly walked away. Winter is the best time to enjoy lichen, before the trees areContinue reading “Skipping into Spring”
Happy Houseplants
I love having plants around me at home. They make me happy. And apparently, we all have “the urge to affiliate with other forms of life.” The is called biophilia, a term popularised by biologist Edward Wilson in 1984. There is a wonderful book all about it by Sally Coultard, which is well worth aContinue reading “Happy Houseplants”
Create a mini nature reserve.
You can attract wildlife to your garden because it’s the right thing to do (and it really is, for so many reasons). Or, like me, you can do it because it will bring numerous moments of joy and pleasure to your life. Here are some ideas from my garden over the last ten years thatContinue reading “Create a mini nature reserve.”
My Grounded Garden Bird Watch
I on a kitchen chair in front of the window. I’m excited and ready to go, with a cuppa, bird books, paper and pen beside me. I relish an hour of focusing only on the natural world for the RSPB Great Garden Bird Watch. It feels like a luxury, and every year I think IContinue reading “My Grounded Garden Bird Watch”
Small wonders don’t always happen by chance
I’ve had a medium size garden for nearly ten years now. With careful consideration (and some happy accidents!) I have ensured that we are regularly wowed by small wonders of nature. Here’s what I’ve learnt: Embrace nostalgia Plant something you remember from your childhood, or which you associate with someone you love. Every time youContinue reading “Small wonders don’t always happen by chance”