To quote the late-biologist and conservationist Rachel Carson, "Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts." Mother nature, with its almighty power, has nurtured all lives on earth for as long as the planet has existed, yet with our urbanisation we seem to have become increasingly disconnected from the nature. Wang Pin-han, from the education department of Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden (KFBG), speaks to us about the physical and psychological benefits of appreciating the nature, and the things to note when doing so. 

Man is Part of Nature

"Man is part of nature, and we can't be separated from it," said Wang, responsible for holistic education at KFBG, a farm established in 1956 to provide agricultural aid to local farmers and to play an active role in promoting the conservation of biodiversity in Hong Kong and South China. "Nature is like our mother who nurtures us and all other creatures without asking anything in return, which is why going back to the nature is like going back to the mother's cradle, which makes us feel relaxed, free and safe. Going back to the nature also excites our curiosity so that we will be inclined to learn more about the nature."

Open Your Eyes to the Flora and Fauna in Hong Kong

Among the great variety of flora and fauna in Hong Kong, Wang names a few popular ones to look out for when visiting the countryside. "The bauhinia blakeana, otherwise known as the 'Hong Kong Orchid Tree', is one of the more popular flora species in Hong Kong. You'll find it in parks, on the roadside, and in the lower farm area of KFBG. The Black Kite and wild macaques, meanwhile, are commonly seen animal species in Hong Kong, which can be found in the country parks and KFBG."

If you're planning an all-encompassing visit to the nature, there are quite a few nature walks within KFBG where you can embrace the sheer amount of flora and fauna. "The Fern Walk is home to over 130 species of fern, with this protected species of tree planted along the terraces in a humid environment to ensure the well-being of ferns, making the Fern Walk a perfect walk in summer because of its coolness. The Butterfly Garden is a garden where different plants are grown to attract butterflies and moths, including host plants for the butterfly's larvae – the garden has attracted over 1,300 species of moths and 170 species of butterfly in February this year alone. You'll notice that as different plants and flowers blossom in different seasons, they also attract different species of butterflies and moths, giving you that ever-changing, surprise element to expect every season. And then there is the Enkianthus Walk to the summit of Kwun Yam Shan, with trees of the enkianthus quinqueflorus, also called the 'Chinese New Year Flower' as it only blossoms once a year in the Chinese New Year, planted on both sides of the walk. This walk is also cool and perfect for summer, but do watch the terraces as you go."

By now you must be already excited to head out and explore the nature for yourself. Before you go, however, here are a few things you would want to take note of when taking your leisurely walks in the nature. "Appreciating the nature is a great hobby for senior citizens, as being in the nature has the power of opening our hearts and senses to facilitate communication with friends and family, as well as releasing pressure and anxiety in our daily life, so do bring along some friends to enjoy the beautiful mother nature together. Do plan your routes beforehand as you would need to understand the difficulty of the route, the length of time it would take to finish the walk, and all the other necessary information you and your friends will need to know in advance. For senior citizens, in particular, it is important to pick the routes that match their physical ability – don't force yourself into finishing a route that requires the negotiation of terraces if you have knee or heart problem, for instance. It's always wise to bring enough water, a hiking stick, a windbreaker, and a light backpack to carry any other personal items. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes that can protect your feet and legs when negotiating the terrain," said Wang, who added that psychological preparation is equally necessary. "Opening your heart and all your senses is helpful when reconnecting with the nature, as it helps you to better appreciate the surrounding environment. By all means walk slowly in silence, so that you won't miss the beautiful birdsongs, the new shoots from tree branches, the fresh scent of the forest, and the cool wind that caresses your skin."

By the time you have completed your first nature walk, you would be, without a doubt, awestruck and eager to learn more about the nature. The good news is that Hong Kong is home to a great number of country parks with thoroughly planned trails to ensure your safety and appreciation of the nature. If you're keen, sign up for KFBG's extensive list of education programmes on anything from tree planting to wildlife habitat. Call up your friends, put on your hiking shoes, and pay a visit to mother nature, who has been showering us with nurturing love from the day you were born!

Special Thanks:
Wang Pin-han, Holistic Education Officer of Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden