30 Days Wild: Week 2 - Get Moving and Explore

Welcome back to the #30DaysWild Challenge. We hope you had a fantastic first week connecting with nature. Now, as we delve into the second week of our wild adventure, the theme is all about getting active and exploring the incredible landscapes around us – it's time to move like wildlife!

This week we are exploring the joy of movement throughout the world. Whether it's a gentle stroll or a more energetic adventure, getting physical outdoors is a fantastic way to boost your mood, discover new places, and deepen your connection with nature. So, lace up your boots, hop on your bike, and let's get moving!

Here's what Week 2 has in store:

Hillside at Coombe Bissett Down, looking out over the valley with long grass and wildflowers

9 June: Discover a new nature reserve

With over 40 stunning nature reserves, each with its own beauty, nature and wildlife, there is bound to be a reserve near you waiting to be discovered. Why not venture out and explore somewhere new? Whether it's the ancient woodlands of Blackmoor Copse or the tranquil wetlands of Lower Moor Farm, discovering a new reserve is a fantastic way to experience a new part of Wiltshire or just a new local landscape. Check out our website for a list of our reserves.

10 June: Experience the magic of early morning and watch a sunrise

Embrace the start of the day with a truly wild experience. Set your alarm earlier today and find a peaceful spot to watch the sunrise. Witnessing the world awaken with the rising sun is a magical experience, and you'll likely be treated to the sounds of early morning birdsong too. It's a simple yet profound way to connect with the rhythm of nature. Some top spots for sunrises are The Devenish near Salisbury, Morgan’s Hill between Calne and Devizes, Coombe Bisset Down near Salisbury, or Middleton Down near Shaftesbury.

11 June: Enjoy exercise outside

Swap your usual workout for an outdoor adventure today. Whether it's a brisk walk, a refreshing run, or a gentle cycle through the countryside, exercising outdoors invigorates both body and mind. There are so many ways that daylight can benefit us. Breathe in the fresh air, feel the sun on your skin, and let the natural surroundings motivate you. You could even try something gentler like Tai Chi, Forest Bathing or Yoga in your garden, one of our reserves, or a local park.

12 June: Go for a wander by the water

There's something incredibly calming about being near water. Today, take a stroll along one of Wiltshire's beautiful rivers or chalk streams. Observe the wildlife that thrives in these aquatic habitats – you might spot kingfishers, dragonflies, or even otters! River walks offer a unique perspective on our landscape and the interconnectedness of nature. Our top reserves with rivers running through them include Conigre Mead in Melksham, Smallbrook Meadows in Warminster, Bay Meadows in Marlborough, and Widbrook Wood in Bradford on Avon.

13 June: Look up and dream - go cloud spotting

Sometimes, the most captivating scenery is high above us. Stop and take some time to simply lie back and watch the clouds drift by. Notice the different shapes and patterns – do the shapes look like animals or familiar objects? Cloud spotting is a relaxing and imaginative way to connect with the ever-changing beauty of the sky. Our Wellbeing Manager Immie has created this helpful short video as a guided meditation to help you relax and unwind as the clouds pass by.

14 June: Pack a picnic for lunch outdoors

What better way to enjoy the great outdoors than with a delicious picnic? Pack some treats and find a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature. Remember to be a responsible picnicker – take all your rubbish home with you and leave no trace of your visit. If you are visiting Lower Moor Farm or Langford Lakes and don’t fancy the extra effort with bringing your own food, why not pop into our cafes for a fantastic sandwich, cake and hot drink!

Group of people gather around a raised bed with plants and herbs.

15 June: Help inspire others by logging your actions on Team Wilder

As we reach the end of Week 2, it's a great time to reflect on all the wild things you've been doing! If you've signed up for #30DaysWild, remember to log your activities on Team Wilder. Sharing your experiences can inspire others and helps The Wildlife Trusts track the collective impact of this fantastic challenge. Let us know what you've been up to on our social media channels too - tag Wiltshire Wildlife Trust on Instagram and Facebook.

Week 2 is all about movement for your body and soul, and exploration in Wiltshire’s landscapes. We hope you'll enjoy getting active and discovering new places.

Let's keep the wild momentum going, stay tuned for next week's blog all about learning about wildlife!