Embracing the outdoors
I'm excited to delve into a topic that is not only close to my heart but also backed by research: the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.
With each of our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the simple act of getting outside. Whether you’re hanging out at the park, hiking in the mountains, or sitting outside (with your dog perhaps), nature has a unique way of calming our minds and helping us to feel refreshed. As a mental health counselor, I’ve experienced firsthand and seen in my clients how integrating outdoor activities into daily routines can do wonders for mental well-being.
Nature's Healing Power
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety Spending time in nature can significantly lower stress levels. The sounds, sight, and smells of nature can give us a welcome break from our daily routines. Research has shown that even brief periods spent in green spaces can reduce feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
2. Boosts Mood Natural sunlight is a powerful mood enhancer. Exposure to sunlight increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and feelings of happiness.
3. Enhances Cognitive Function Nature has a restorative effect on the brain, improving focus, attention, and cognitive function. Adults report increased creativity and problem-solving skills following time spent in natural settings. The tranquility of nature provides a mental reset, allowing the brain to recover from the overstimulation of the day-to-day.
4. Improves Physical Health Physical activity is a well-known boost to mental health, and outdoor activities like walking the beach, biking, or gardening combine the benefits of exercise with the therapeutic effects of nature. Regular physical activity helps to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and boost overall mental health.
Practical Tips to Integrate Nature into Your Life
1. Take a Daily Walk Incorporate a walk into your daily routine, whether it's during your lunch break, after dinner, or first thing in the morning. Often overlooked, I don’t think walking gets enough credit considering its benefits to mental AND physical health.
2. Practice Mindfulness Outdoors Find a quiet spot in a park or your backyard and spend a few minutes practicing mindfulness. Focus on your breathing, the sensation of the ground beneath you, and the sounds around you. This can help ground you and bring a sense of peace. Bonus points if you take your shoes off and ground your feet with the earth!
3. Plan Outdoor Activities With Someone Schedule outdoor activities with a friend or family member to help keep you accountable and to keep it fun. Social interactions combined with nature can further enhance your mental well-being and interpersonal connection.
4. Bring Nature Indoors If getting outside is challenging, bring elements of nature into your home or workspace. Plants, natural light, and nature sounds can help create a calming environment that mimics the outdoors. I like to put on my sound machine and listen to the sounds of rain or water before bed.
5. Explore New Places Challenge yourself to explore new outdoor locations. Whether it’s a new park in your area or a scenic trail, discovering new environments can invigorate your sense of adventure and curiosity.
Incorporating nature into your routine doesn’t require grand gestures or significant time commitments. Open that front door and take a deep breath in, take your pet for a walk, or open a couple windows to start.
Let’s get outside!
