Did you know, on the 19th August it is World Photography Day? You all know we enjoy a good photo. We have had many photography challenges and we run photography walks. It provided a lot of entertainment over the pandemic. We need to celebrate this day!
The theme for this year is “Understanding Clouds” and what a beautiful choice.
We are asking you all to ‘look up’ over August. Notice the clouds, notice your surroundings. Maybe even pause and lay on the grass to spend some time in the moment, and if you see an interesting one, send in a picture with what image you see. You can be as abstract or fun with your choices. There is no right or wrong. It is what you see when looking up at the clouds.
Photos can be shared on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WALXcoastandcountry
You have the whole of the month of August.
Can you see my BEAR in the photo?
Have some fun!
Let’s Talk About…
The benefits of ‘looking up’. As the monthly challenge is all about enjoying the clouds, we wondered what the benefits are of doing so.
Most people get focused on their day, thinking about daily errands, events or looking at their phone. Even on our walks, we get so engrossed in conversation or looking down to mind our feet, that we don’t always look above us.
When we look up you may find birds nesting, even singing. Maybe a beautiful canopy of leaves in the summer months, full of colour and different shapes. Maybe when this rain clears, you’ll see the stars high in the sky. Our brains need these tiny moments to flourish.
Looking up can help with creativity, playfulness, and critical thinking.
Did you know? A few moments starring at the stars can increase the blood flow to the eyes, helping your pupils dilate to let more light in, improving your sight.
Pausing to look above, makes you appreciate your small place in a greater world, giving you perspective, to manage your worries better. As well as the benefit of being out in the fresh air, what a great way to improve for your mental health and wellbeing. It has been prescribed as a method of mindfulness to help with anxiety and depression.
You can get a feeling of wonder and awareness. Noticing nature can relieve stress, bring peace and balance to manage emotions.
Let’s continue to look up, notice the daily changes, and free our imagination. Enjoy…