Neurodivergence and Nature

Kerry Williams
, 16 March 2026
Neurodivergence and Nature
Kai Hilton © Carine Demolin

By Kai Hilton

Communications Officer - Design & Visitor Experience

As a neurodivergent person, my brain is wired slightly differently. I am very sensitive to noise, and I often find loud or crowded environments quite stressful. It’s painful and overwhelming, my brain gets cloudy and I can’t focus. Anxiety rises. Get me away from that crowded town centre with horns blaring and the dull hum of stranger’s conversations. Get me to a flowing tidal river filled with lively waders, or a forest filled with fresh air and the sound of chittering, fluttering birds.

Oystercatcher © Kai Hilton

I’d describe my mind to be a whirlwind of racing thoughts, ideas and generally a random song. When in nature, it is one of the few times my mind is quiet, only focusing on my surroundings and not darting around to every erratic thought.

Armed with my trusty camera, I get endless amounts of joy from trekking around nature reserves, looking for my next photo target.

Being surrounded by nature is a soothing, sensory experience. Sometimes I stop and take a moment to close my eyes and tap into my senses. Listening to melodic bird calls, gentle creaking of the swaying trees, and muted tones as I tread along the earthy ground. Taking a deep breath to inhale the relaxing scents of damp foliage and sweet wildflowers, feeling the light breeze on my face.

Common Blue butterfly © Kai Hilton

My brain wiring also causes issues with my memory. Don’t ask me what I did yesterday, when that appointment is, or where my keys are. But feel free to send me your blurry, pixelated bird photo in your local park and I’ll gladly tell you what it is. Turns out having birds and nature as a special interest is a cheat code for overriding poor memory.

Finding an interest in nature over the past few years has brought me endless delight, a safe space, a hobby, artistic inspiration and most importantly a passion.

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Comments

  • Tamsin Turnbull:

    That’s great you’ve found that nature helps you to calm your mind and regulate. I support lots of neurodivergent children who really struggle with this.

    19 Mar 2026 13:01:00

  • Eileen Slater:

    Many thanks for your honest comment . You have found the essence of a happy life which will serve you well always. Nothing better! Hoping you will have a very fulfilling life.

    19 Mar 2026 15:44:00

  • Beth:

    Loved reading about your experiences. I feel soothed by nature too :) your photos are brilliant

    19 Mar 2026 16:14:00

  • Karen Miell:

    Kai Hilton has just made my day , reading report has just made me feel human as l feel the same way .
    Thank you .

    19 Mar 2026 17:46:00

  • Hazel Wilde:

    Wow, wonderful to read. Thank you.

    19 Mar 2026 18:23:00

  • Elspeth:

    Beautiful photos, thank you, and for explaining how you feel when surrounded by nature rather than by people. Very understandable!

    19 Mar 2026 18:58:00

  • Rona Hawes:

    Imagine my surprise when I realised I know Kai! What a lovely article, showing how important nature is, especially to calm a neurodivergent mind. Keep up the good work Kai.

    20 Mar 2026 04:07:00

  • Clare Harding:

    Thanks Kai, what you say definitely resonates with me, it’s just soooo good to be outside as much as possible and hear that birdsong, the most grounding thing for me. Beautiful photos you’re taking too.

    20 Mar 2026 14:55:00

  • Mark Woodgate:

    Thanks for sharing Kai nature is so healing and good for mental health in so many ways and it’s free and right there in front of us. Oh and totally stunning photo of the Common Blue by the way!

    22 Mar 2026 09:04:00

  • Jennifer Davies:

    Kai, it’s wonderful to read how your interest in nature has bought so much into your life.
    Very best wishes to you.

    25 Mar 2026 13:24:00

  • Sue McRae:

    How reassuring to read your comments, Kai. I know just how you feel about too much noise, how destructive it seems, and how you can’t wait to get away from it. Standing under trees, just listening to the small sounds and ‘being’ rather than ‘doing’ are great comforts. I hate using my computer at home, but I quite often have a birdsong CD on while I’m working, which makes all the difference and keeps me calm. Good luck with all you do, you’re wonderful!

    30 Mar 2026 11:33:00

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