Reconnecting with nature has never been so easy.
In a fast-paced world, taking a moment to pause and enjoy the small things can be a challenge. For those who cherish nature, it’s no secret that a simple walk can help reduce stress, boost focus, and lift your spirits. Research from the National Institutes of Health reveals that 98% of individuals experience better mental health when they spend time in natural outdoor settings.
Studies show nature walks can significantly improve mental health. (Image: Parks Victoria)
Luckily for us, Australia is brimming with incredible hikes, from trails that trace the coastline to multi-day bushwalks and everything in between. But tugging on your boots and making tracks isn’t an automatic ticket to happiness. In today’s world, it can be hard to hit pause, clear the mind and be present, even when surrounded by nature.
However, Parks Victoria is making it a little easier with a new series of self-guided wellness trails designed to encourage mindfulness, relaxation and rejuvenation across some of the state’s most serene regions.
Where are the new trails?
Currently, Parks Victoria has introduced three different wellness trails. Each walk offers a different experience and its own unique set of activities.
Grass-Tree Nature Trail
Spot friendly kangaroos along the walking trail. (Image: Parks Victoria)
The first option is within Woowookarung Regional Park, a stunning 641-hectare former plantation on the outskirts of Ballarat. Although the greenspace is filled with plenty of bushwalking tracks, those keen to do the wellness walk should follow the 1.8-kilometre Grass-Tree Nature Trail. While wandering through stringybark eucalypts, grass trees and native heath, you’ll be encouraged to slow down, reflect and reconnect with nature. Keep your eye out for kangaroos and echidnas, and, depending on the season, colourful native wildflowers.
Birrarrung Park
The 2.2-kilometre wellness walk traces the Yarra River. (Image: Parks Victoria)
City slickers can take in the scenery on the 2.2-kilometre Birrarrung Park loop, just a 30-minute drive from Melbourne’s CBD. Perfect for inner-city urbanites who need a quick nature fix, this wellness walk is an easy way to get your steps up and your stress levels down. Listen to the soothing sounds of the nearby Plenty and Yarra rivers as you work through posture techniques, sensory practices and relaxation strategies. Those with accessibility needs can easily join this wellness walk, with completely flat paths catering to mobility aids and prams.
Sherbrooke Falls walk
Reconnect with nature in the Dandenong Ranges National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria)
If you prefer to push yourself a little further, head deep into the Yarra Valley‘s Dandenong Ranges National Park. Amongst the cool-climate Sherbrooke Forest, you’ll find a 5.5-kilometre loop that winds through towering Mountain Ash gums and lush ferns. Using the NatureFix app, engage in six different stations that work to deepen your connection to nature. Guided audio talks you through breathing techniques and gratitude exercises before helping you create a sound map of the forest’s symphony.
Whichever wellness walk you choose to do, you’ll finish feeling refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated – equipped with the tools to take care of yourself – mind, body and soul.
How do the new wellness trails work?
By downloading the free NatureFix app, you’ll be guided through a range of simple activities, specifically tailored to each trail. From breathing exercises to posture techniques, each task focuses on improving mindfulness and reducing stress levels. The app also teaches users about sensory practices and grounding strategies, as well as boosting creativity through sound mapping.
The self-guided format of each wellness walk means participants can do it in their own time, too – all while avoiding the fees and booking processes that often come with wellness-based experiences in Australia. It’s the perfect way to unwind at your own pace, without having to do it alone.
