Often dubbed the most challenging day of the year for mental wellbeing, this Blue Monday, The Original Muck Boot Company and Forestry England are encouraging people across the UK to step outdoors and experience the restorative benefits of nature.
The call to get outside forms part of Muck Boot’s ongoing role, as Forestry England’s first National Wellbeing Partner. A collaboration launched on World Mental Health Day (10th October) and dedicated to helping more people connect with nature, improve their mental and physical wellbeing and reduce barriers to spending time outdoors.
Motivation to be outside is often at its lowest during the winter months. However, even short periods spent in green spaces are proven to reduce stress, improve mood and help people feel more grounded, which many find especially valuable at this time of year.
As part of the programme, Muck Boot supports wellbeing initiatives across five Forestry England sites. These include:
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Tailored activity sessions for community groups and individuals with mild-to-moderate health conditions.
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Projects and infrastructure improvements that reduce barriers to nature and create more inclusive, welcoming forest experiences for local communities.
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Jointly branded materials at key Forestry England sites encouraging visitors to engage with nature, alongside a year-round competition inviting people to share: “What are you thankful to the forest for?” Entries via QR code will give participants the chance to win a pair of Muck Boots and a Forestry England membership.
These sit alongside a wider, year-round commitment from Muck Boot to celebrate the joy and wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors, whether that is walking in nature, exploring with family and pets or simply taking a quiet moment beneath the trees.
Muck Boot’s donation of footwear to Forestry England’s Shadow Ranger Volunteers further supports these efforts, helping those on the ground who work to promote positive, accessible outdoor experiences for communities.
Together, Muck Boot and Forestry England share a long-term mission to make England’s forests more welcoming, inclusive and inspiring and to encourage more people to discover the restorative power of nature this Blue Monday and beyond.
