Bluebells

Going for a run to see the bluebells in Wanstead Park is one of my biggest joys of the year. From when they start to appear I try to visit them as many times as I can. I've got about 2 weeks to get as many runs/walks in as I can before they die.

A few interesting things about bluebells that I found:

-the UK is home to almost half the worlds bluebells

-they have many names including lady's nightcap, witches thimbles and cuckoo boots

-they are important in folklore. It was believed that the bluebells rang out to summon fairy gatherings. And anyone who heard a blue bell ring would need to watch out! 😮

I personally don't believe in fairies but these stories are important to our wellbeing and shared culture. And the arrival of the bluebells are a lovely marker of the season and help us to connect with nature (we are nature).

I ran around and at the same time just to happened to be listening to the Blindboy podcast whose recent podcast is about fairies and seagulls. Listening to his podcasts is so therapeutic.