With the Christmas holidays approaching many people might be reflecting on what they have done this year. For some, now will be the time to set New Year resolutions.
Maybe visiting that place you’ve always meant to see, joining the gym, or not drinking quite so much coffee !
The truth is, despite our best efforts many resolutions don’t make it much past the start of February. The trick to sticking to your goal is to be realistic and select a target that is achievable.
There are lots of reasons why people look to set New Year resolutions;
- Be fitter 55%
- Eat healthier 52%
- Lose weight 49%
- Focus on finances (e.g., save more money, track/reduce spending, pay off debt) 39%
- Prioritise my mental health 26%
- Be more productive, or organised 26%
- Travel more 20%
- Become closer with my friends and family 16%
- Pick up a new hobby 15%
- Be more conscious of my impact on the environment 13%
- Focus more on my work and career 11%
- Focus on my education 8%
- Start a romantic relationship with someone 6%
(Based on YouGov Self-serve | 11 December 2023)
Every week, throughout the year, the Biodiversity Team, with the support of Sutton Nature Conservation Volunteers, undertake a variety of practical habitat management work at over 30 sites across the Borough.
As well as providing an enjoyable and rewarding way to meet new people, make small nature discoveries and learn new skills, Task Days provide a great way to achieve your New Year resolutions.
Although the work undertaken isn’t so strenuous that you will achieve your goals immediately, regular attendance might help you get a little fitter, discover local places you haven’t visited before and contribute to helping the environment.
Being outdoors in green space is also good for mental health. People who spend at least two hours a week in nature experience better health and higher psychological well being than those who do not visit nature at all during an average week. When surrounded by trees and green space blood pressure and stress levels decrease, whilst trees have been found to enhance mood and improve self-esteem.
Task Days take place weekly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and once a month on a Sunday morning. Starting at 10am, you can come for as long as you wish
In January the Biodiversity Team will also be hosting ‘Wildlife Wednesdays’. Taking place at a number of sites around the Borough. This will be a great opportunity to spend an hour, or so, carrying out habitat management work in some of Sutton’s amazing green spaces.
Wednesday 8th January from 1:30pm – Culvers Avenue (meet Nr Allotments )
Wednesday 15th January from 1:30pm – Queen Mary’s Woodland (meet at Diamond Jubilee Way entrance)
Wednesday 22nd January from 1:30pm – Cuddington Rec (meet half way down main path)
Wednesday 29th January from 1:30pm – Roundshaw Woods (meet on Apeldoorn Drive)
Tools and gloves will be provided.
Please contact Mark Featherstone at biodiversity@sutton.gov.uk for more information.
