For many of us, the experience of nature is an awe inspiring and rejuvenating experience. There are many documented benefits to health, wellbeing and spirituality that are a result of experiencing the marvels of the natural world (The Conversation: How even just 15 minutes in nature can boost your wellbeing).
Experiencing nature often requires awareness of opportunities, time, access and transportation, money, a guide, mobility and good health, and other resources; and not all people have ready access to these, and to the experiences that many of us take for granted. To experience nature is an issue of justice, and depends on where you live, the extent of accessible natural environments, and many other factors. For people with disabilities, or those who are time-poor, or living in built-up, urban environments the opportunities to enjoy nature might not be readily available.
Recently, members of A Rocha in Melbourne linked up with another charity that focuses on the physical, social, and mental well-being of its participants by providing a range of services through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). We arranged a birdwatching walk in a local redgum woodland for carers and their participants. Providing binoculars to observe the colourful birds and pointing out which bird was making a particular sound added to the enjoyment of the morning. Even a small experience of nature can bring delight, and a glimpse of the Creator who made it.