Postgraduate Certificate in Birding for Self-Regulation
Published on June 28, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, where we explore unique courses that offer unconventional paths to personal growth and professional development. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest today, Dr. Olivia Lumley, an expert ornithologist and the instructor of the Postgraduate Certificate in Birding for Self-Regulation. Welcome, Dr. Lumley! GUEST: Thank you for having me! I'm excited to discuss this exciting new course. HOST: Let's dive right in! Can you share your personal experiences that led you to develop this unique course? GUEST: Absolutely! I've always been passionate about birds and their therapeutic effects on mental health. My own experiences with birdwatching helped me through challenging times, sparking my interest in creating a course to share these benefits with others. HOST: That's fascinating! Can you tell us about any current industry trends that make this course particularly relevant right now? GUEST: Absolutely! There's a growing interest in nature-based therapies and self-regulation techniques. Employers are also recognizing the importance of mental health in the workplace, making this course an attractive option for professionals seeking innovative ways to manage stress and improve focus. HOST: It's clear that this course fills a much-needed gap. But as with any new subject, there must be challenges in teaching it. What obstacles have you encountered? GUEST: One challenge is helping students understand the connection between birding and self-regulation. We've worked hard to design practical activities and assignments that demonstrate the immediate benefits of birding, making the course engaging and effective. HOST: I can imagine that's an interesting challenge! Now, looking forward, where do you see the future of birding for self-regulation? GUEST: I believe birding for self-regulation will become increasingly popular as people seek alternative methods to cope with stress and anxiety. Our course aims to equip learners with lifelong skills for managing their mental wellbeing, contributing to a more balanced and resilient society. HOST: Dr. Lumley, thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. The Postgraduate Certificate in Birding for Self-Regulation is truly an innovative and inspiring course! GUEST: Thank you for having me! I'm excited to see how this course can make a positive impact on people's lives.
