HAVE a wild adventure and get out into the beautiful countryside during Somerset’s first ever Naturally Healthy Month which runs throughout May.

People of all ages have the opportunity to take part in around 45 different outdoor activities, adventures and experiences - many free that connect people with nature.

The events include ‘wild’ outdoor spaces, landscapes and environments designed to help improve health and mental wellbeing.

How about trying mindfulness in the meadow at East Mendip, where you can focus on the moment to improve your mental wellbeing or looking at wonderful rock and cave art in the local caves at Mendip Hill where you can also try creating your own cave painting?

Or fancy a sing and stroll at Otterhead Lakes, a Wonderful Woodlands walk exploring your local woodlands at a free family day out at Yeovil Country Park or some therapeutic gardening and gentle yoga at the Wall Gardens of Cannington?

There is something for everyone - from nature, art and outdoor volunteering, to wildlife and singing walks.

There is a particular emphasis during the month on supporting individuals who are less physically active, suffer with mental health issues or who feel isolated.

Louise Finnis, health promotion manager at Somerset County Council, said: “Naturally Healthy Month will showcase some of the wonderful opportunities we have in Somerset to have a really good day out.

"All the events connect people and nature, promoting health and wellbeing. They will leave you feeling good from the inside out!”

Ecotherapy manager Dave Topham from Mind in Taunton and West Somerset said: “At Mind in Taunton and West Somerset we know how extraordinarily beneficial connecting with nature can be for good mental health.

"We have seen massive improvements in mood and confidence in participants on conservation groups we have run (an average 35 per cent improvement in mood and an average 45 per cent improvement in confidence).

"Naturally Healthy Month is a great time to connect with nature and your own wellbeing, it presents some great opportunities to get outside to feel better inside.”

Naturally Healthy Month is supported by Somerset County Council and Somerset Local Nature Partnership.

The month is co-ordinated by Somerset’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty with the support of Somerset Wildlife Trust.

Over 45 events have been developed by a wide range of organisations across Somerset. Most of the events are free.

The month of activities takes place during May