a publication for
VAL DE VIE ESTATE RESIDENTS
March 2023
Feeling Chirpy Bird watching provides many opportunities to
natural environment can also positively contribute to our
you identify species and tick off any new finds – an
experience wonder, surprise and amazement, whether
mindfulness, distracting us from ruminative thoughts
enjoyable activity at any age. Focus your attention on
spotting a new species, hearing an unusual call, or
and allowing us space to simply enjoy the moment.
how the birds look and sound. Examine their plumage
watching a display or mating ritual. Bird watching has
During a recent study, scientists proved that when
and explore the colours. Do you see any patterns?
many proven mental health benefits, from reducing
people witnessed more birds daily, they experienced
How long is their beak? Can you spot the differences
stress to awe-inspiring moments of appreciating
reduced prevalence and severity of depression, stress
between the male and females of the species? Also,
the wildlife around us. While getting out into nature
and anxiety. You can do bird watching alone or as a
be sure to focus on their calls. Is the sound high or
or enjoying it from the comfort of our garden helps
fun family activity. A small pair of essential binoculars
low-pitched? Can you hear species ‘chatting’ with each
to contribute to our general well-being – birds are
will help you get a closer look at anything you spot
other? Could you try and imitate their calls? Immerse
particularly effective – as we can both see and hear
and enable you to examine our feathered friends in
yourself in the world of the bird and seek pleasure from
them. Focusing on birds and other aspects of the
more detail. In addition, a bird pocket book will help
the beauty that is all around us on Val de Vie Estate.