5 Ways Nature Can Help Your Mental Health

Have you ever wondered why it feels so good, mentally and physically, to spend time in nature? 

You’re not alone. Nature offers many benefits 

Integrating nature into your self-care routine can be a powerful way to nurture your mental well-being and find balance in a demanding world. While it can be tricky to add in nature time to our already busy schedules, the benefits of nature on our overall sense of wellness can make it worth the trouble. 

Why is nature so helpful to our mental health?

Research consistently shows that spending time in nature offers numerous mental health benefits, in addition to just being fun. Here are a few key advantages of nature for mental health: 

Reduced stress and anxiety

Nature has a calming effect on the mind. Being in natural surroundings or even viewing nature scenes can lower cortisol levels, reduce stress, and alleviate anxiety. It feels soothing to our nervous systems to be surrounded by nature. Spending time outside or in nature can be a helpful skill for regulating your nervous system.  

Improved mood

Exposure to natural light and fresh air can enhance your mood and energy levels. Simply put - our bodies love to be outside, and making time for that can spark joy, wonder, contentment, and ease. It feels good to go outside. Nature can also boost the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone, helping to combat depression.

Enhanced focus and creativity

Time spent in nature can improve concentration, attention, and creativity. The natural environment offers a mental break from the constant stimulation of technology and urban life, which can make it easier to unlock creative thoughts and harness your artistic side. Time spent outdoors can also help improve your level of focus! If you’re having a hard time concentrating, try taking a nature break and see if your focus is improved when you come back inside. 

Gives us a sense of wonder and belonging

Nature is awe-inspiring, and often helps us remember that we are a small part of a big world, and that we are connected to the other life forms around us. Feeling a sense of wonder is a big perk of being human - not all creatures can appreciate the beauty and awe of the natural world! Nature fosters a sense of connection and belonging to a community that is bigger than just us. It reminds us that we are part of a larger ecosystem, which can be grounding and reassuring.

It’s good for your physical health

Engaging in outdoor activities promotes physical health, which is closely linked to mental well-being. Supporting your physical health often improves your mental health. Spending time in nature can boost endorphins, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance overall vitality. 

How to incorporate nature into your self-care routine

Nature has many important benefits for our health, but it can be tricky to figure out how to add in more time in nature to your routine. Incorporating nature into your self-care routine doesn’t require drastic changes or extensive outdoor adventures (although if that’s what you’d like, you’re welcome to have as many outdoor adventures as you want). 

Incorporating nature into your self-care routine is about making intentional choices to prioritize your mental well-being. It might take some trial and error to find out what works best for you and your routine. Try blocking out time in your calendar for nature activities, just as you would for any other important appointment. Don’t bite off more than you can chew - begin with small, manageable changes to keep things sustainable, and gradually increase the amount of time you spend in nature as it becomes a regular part of your routine. 

It might also be helpful to combine nature with other self-care practices you enjoy, such as reading a book in the park or having a picnic with friends. Finally, remember to be flexible and adaptable. If weather or circumstances prevent you from going outside, find ways to experience nature indoors or through virtual nature experiences.

Here are some practical and accessible ways to bring nature into your life on a regular basis:

Take daily nature breaks

Make it a point to get outside for at least a few minutes every day. Set an alarm on your phone or put a note on your calendar so that you actually are forced to stop and take a break. It’s all too easy to intend to get outside and then get distracted by other things, so building it into your schedule can make it simpler to follow through.

Take short breaks throughout your day to step outside, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Breathe in the fresh air, feel the sunlight on your skin, and observe your surroundings. These mini nature breaks can help reset your mind and reduce stress. Making time for this kind of break a few times a day can make a big difference in your overall stress level. 

Incorporate mindfulness

It’s all too easy to get outside and then spend the whole time looking at your phone or email, or thinking about something else. A mindfulness practice can help you make the most of these moments in nature. Try practicing meditation or mindfulness in a natural setting. Find a quiet spot in a park or near a body of water, sit comfortably, and focus on your breath. Allow the sounds of nature to guide your meditation, promoting relaxation and inner peace.

You can also try to incorporate mindful walking into your routine. Choose a nearby park, garden, or nature trail, and walk slowly, paying attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Mindful walking in nature can be a meditative practice that enhances your connection to the present moment, so you can reap the benefits of your time spent outside. 

Practice movement outdoors

When you feel like exercising or moving your body, aim to do so outdoors whenever possible. Whether it’s yoga in the park, jogging along a trail, or cycling through your neighborhood, outdoor exercise combines the benefits of physical activity with the rejuvenating effects of nature.

Get into gardening

Gardening can be another great way to make nature a part of your life. If you have access to a garden or even a small balcony, consider gardening as a therapeutic activity. Tending to plants, flowers, or herbs can be a calming and rewarding way to connect with nature and nurture your mental health, in addition to being a fun and fulfilling hobby.

Keep a nature journal

Journaling is a wonderful way to reflect on your experiences. Start a nature journal to document your experiences outdoors. Write about your observations, feelings, and reflections during your time in nature. Nature journaling can enhance your appreciation for the natural world and provide insights into your emotional state, as well as be a way to enhance your creativity. 

Bring nature inside

This is especially important in the winter months, where spending time in nature is harder due to the weather. Try to bring elements of nature into your home or workspace. Decorate with plants, flowers, natural materials, or nature-inspired artwork. Create a calming and soothing environment that reminds you of the outdoors so you can enjoy the benefits of nature year round.

At Hope+Wellness, we believe in the healing power of nature and its potential to enhance your mental health and well-being. By incorporating nature into your self-care routine, you can find balance, reduce stress, and foster a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you. If you’re seeking additional support or guidance, our therapists are here to help you navigate your path to wellness. Contact us today to get started with one of our clinicians.