Landcare ACT: Engaging Communities in Nature and Mindfulness During Mental Health Month

Oct 9, 2025

Two Inspiring Initiatives for Wellbeing

This October, in celebration of Mental Health Month, Landcare ACT is rolling out two fantastic initiatives designed to help Canberrans (and Facebook followers) strengthen their connection to nature and nurture their mental wellbeing. Through simple daily practices Landcare ACT’s offerings make it easy for everyone to get involved and experience the restorative power of the outdoors.

Daily Nature Connection Invitations

Throughout Mental Health Month, Landcare ACT is inviting the community to engage in small daily connections with nature—accessible activities that anyone can do, regardless of location or experience. Each day, a new suggestion is shared, ranging from taking a mindful walk in your local park to spending quiet moments in your own backyard. These invitations are designed to be flexible, so that they can be completed in any order – and repeating favourites is encouraged!

One example is the “sit spot practice”: find a peaceful place outdoors, settle in, and simply observe your surroundings. Whether you’re near water or tucked between habitats, stillness encourages wildlife to emerge and helps build a deeper sense of place. Alternatively, try walking the same route at different times to notice how the landscape transforms. These regular doses of nature, large or small, can have a profound impact on mental health and foster a sense of homecoming each time you return.

If you’re keen for more inspiration, follow Landcare ACT’s daily nature invitations on their Facebook page here.

Cultivating Nature Connection – October Challenge

In partnership with NatureFix, Landcare ACT is also hosting the Cultivating Nature Connection October Challenge. This free, self-paced program is designed for anyone who wants to build a personal practice of connecting with nature and supporting mental health. The challenge draws on global research showing that regular contact with green spaces boosts wellbeing and encourages environmental stewardship.

Participants get exclusive access to the NatureFix app, featuring the Top 10 Nature Routines, and can interact with others online or in person. The challenge includes a special World Mental Health Day check-in and culminates with a hands-on nature experience at Gungahlin Hill Nature Reserve. Sharing your journey is encouraged via the Wellbeing through Nature Facebook community, creating opportunities for social connection and collective growth.

Both initiatives champion the idea that you don’t need to travel far or dedicate hours to benefit from nature. Small, mindful moments add up, making a difference for both people and the environment.

While the Cultivating Nature Connection October Challenge is full, if you’d like to learn more and possibly start your own mental health initiative you can visit: Cultivating Nature Connection – Landcare ACT or get in touch with Landcare ACT at communications@landcareact.org.au.

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