ANDY MURRAY has joined a host of celebrities to promote a major new health and wellness campaign.
Newly-retired Scottish tennis legend Murray has joined the likes of Spice Girl Geri Halliwell-Horner and pop singer Ellie Goulding in the new World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) ‘Prescription for Nature’ campaign which encourages the UK public to get their ‘daily dose’ of the natural world.
Murray, who has been snapped by renowned wildlife and entertainment photographer Conor McDonnell walking through some woodland near his home in Surrey, says he was lucky to be brought up close to nature in Dunblane.
He said that going for a walk with the dog through the countryside is perfect to clear his head from any of the stresses and strains of life at the sharp end of world tennis.
He said: “I was lucky growing up in Scotland, where we were surrounded by nature.
“I know from my travels around the world, that not everybody has that easy access to the countryside.
“For me, being out in nature really clears my head.
“I have had times in my career when I’ve felt under pressure and there’s nothing like a dog walk to make you feel better and put things into perspective.”
In addition to Murray’s stroll through Surrey woodland, Halliwell-Horner jumps through the waves off the Isle of Wight and Goulding wanders the fields of Gloucestershire with her dog Mara.
The release from WWF says that “being in nature for just 20 minutes a day is enough to improve our mental wellbeing”.
It adds: “It can boost our mood, help us cope with stress, reduce anxiety and even raise our confidence
“WWF has launched an online hub to help everyone get out into nature more and feel its benefits, whether they live in an urban area or regularly get out in the countryside.
“From weekly forest adventures or experiencing the sensations of each season in your local park, to propagating houseplants, growing herbs or enjoying the soothing sounds of the Amazon rainforest while at home, there is a daily dose to suit everyone’s lifestyle.”
