Becoming One With Nature…And All That Jazz
The importance of looking after our mental health has become increasingly recognised, and we love that; it was about time. Yet the solutions often remain vague or overly complicated. You just have to look on social media to see 101 influencers all claiming to hold the answer to a happy life, but instead of being motivational, it goes the other way – it becomes overwhelming! One of the most straightforward and effective ways to enhance mental well-being is to spend time outdoors, engaging in regular exercise, and gaining an appreciation for the natural world around us. These activities not only boost physical health but also offer huge benefits to our mental state. From reducing stress to improving mood, exercise is the answer to so much – from our personal experience, we highly recommend giving it a go!
Spending time ‘at one with nature’ has a unique ability to reset our mental state. Natural environments, whether parks, forests, beaches, or even our back gardens, offer a respite from the constant go, go, go mentality of modern life. It really is exhausting sometimes. Studies have shown that being outdoors can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and lower blood pressure. This reduction in stress is not just about feeling relaxed, though; it has significant effects on our overall health, lowering the risk of chronic illnesses and improving immune function. It is also an opportunity to process our thoughts and emotions in a more grounded manner.
Exercise is another crucial element needed for good mental health, and when combined with the outdoors, its benefits are pretty damn good. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as ‘feel-good’ hormones, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercising outside, whether it’s hiking, cycling, running, or even a brisk walk, enhances these effects by exposing us to sunlight, which in turn increases our vitamin D levels. Adequate vitamin D is essential for mood regulation and has been linked to a lower risk of depression. This cocktail of hormones is better than any other mood enhancer we’ve ever known…and it’s free!
This may sound a little cheesy – please bear with us – but nature has a way of inspiring creative thoughts and wonder about the world around us and opening our minds to new experiences and possibilities. Cultivating mindfulness encourages us to be present in the moment and to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our surroundings. And there is something pretty special about that.
The best part about getting outdoors is that most of us have gardens we can enjoy, even small ones. And for those that don’t, there is usually a park close by. Creating an outdoor haven at home can be a powerful way to integrate the benefits into daily life. Whether it’s a garden, patio, or even a small balcony, transforming outdoor spaces into personal sanctuaries can provide a constant source of relaxation and joy. Gardening, for instance, is an activity that combines physical exercise with the therapeutic effects of nature. Tending to plants and watching them grow can be incredibly satisfying and can bring a sense of achievement and responsibility; it also allows us to switch off from the crazy world around us, even just for a few hours. The key is to create an environment that invites us to spend time outside, relax, and unwind; this can become a place for morning coffee, evening relaxation, a cheeky after-work beer, or even for practising yoga. Whatever your thing, there is a way that everyone can reap the benefits, even our children. So, if you weren’t green-fingered before, maybe now is the time to explore something new.
Please remember that incorporating outdoor time into our daily routines does not have to be a daunting task. It should be something to look forward to and enjoy, not dread. Simple changes, such as taking a walk during your lunch break to grab a few minutes of fresh air, can make a significant difference to anyone’s day. The key is consistency, so starting today, make outdoor time a priority. Over time, these small habits will become second nature – literally!
For those without outdoor space to enjoy at home, green spaces in public areas provide opportunities for social interaction by offering community activities, such as outdoor fitness classes, which can strengthen social bonds and create a sense of belonging. These social connections are vital for mental health in so many ways…reducing isolation, building new friendships, and boosting those all-important feel-good hormones. It’s also a way to try a new hobby that might just be the start of your next adventure.
By creating inviting outdoor spaces at home and making small, consistent efforts to spend time outside, we can all discover a new, or increased, appreciation for nature – and a deeper appreciation and love for ourselves. So even if it’s pouring with rain this weekend, don’t use that as an excuse to hide away under the duvet on the sofa. Wrap up warm, grab yourself a flask of tea and dance in the rain. If it makes you deep-down belly laugh and is maybe a little bit crazy, then we guarantee that it is good for the soul.