The healing power of nature and the outside world proved the turning point for Alsager mum-of-two, Amy Rushton, during a period of illness.

Leading a busy life as an occupational therapist for adults with learning disabilities, the 38-year-old didn't realise just how worn out she was until she started getting palpitations and migraines.

"Your mental wellbeing affects so many physical things so it's important we keep on top of it," said Amy. "As an occupational therapist, I've spent years helping people rebuild their lives through the simple act of 'doing'.

"In OT, we see activity as medicine - whether it's cooking, gardening, walking or caring for someone you love. When I found myself walking more often, I realised that nature was guiding me through a process. It was a therapy session without walls"

During a break from work, Amy turned to the positive power of nature and found it really helped, so much so she wrote a blog about it.

The blog was so successful that she then wrote a book - 'Between the Trails' - and now her work has mushroomed into 'Life Between The Trails' nature-based well-being sessions at Hub & Health in Alsager.

Amy still works three days a week as an occupational therapist but now fits in her nature work around this and looking after her family.

Amy's log. (Image: Amy Rushton)

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"When I was ill walking in nature really helped slow my heart down and other benefits as well. I would 'sit in nature' and my symptoms gradually went.

The book, available here, covers various walks from short walks down to the brook and playing by the water, to hilltop hikes and camping trips.

As she said: "I was brought up with nature as part of everyday life - always exploring outside. We were raised to treat nature as a second home and to respect its gentle voice."

The nature-based wellbeing sessions cover two hours and include green spaces in Alsager, meeting first at Hub & Health in Crewe Road and further details for the next ones in June are available here .

Amy added: "Spending gentle time outdoors has been shown to support mental health and emotional wellbeing, helping people feel calmer, more grounded and less overwhelmed."

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