With warmer weather, longer days, and summer months fast approaching, there’s no better time to talk about the positive effects of spending time outdoors. Those long, bitter, cold months make the sunny days all the more exciting and usually bring better moods right along with them. It’s Tat on the blog today and I’d love to explain how enjoying time in nature on those beautiful summer days can positively impact our mental health.
The Benefits of Getting Outside
Whether it’s something as big as a camping trip, or something as simple as spending an hour walking through a park, spending time in nature has its impacts on mental health. The good news is: the impacts are overwhelmingly positive! One of the most important results of spending time in nature is its ability to lower cortisol levels, a hormone that is partially responsible for our stress responses. Less cortisol means less stress! It can also positively impact our physical and overall mental well-being in a variety of other ways, such as decreasing blood pressure, increasing social interactions, improving cognitive functioning, and boosting overall mood. These changes start occurring within just 20 minutes of time spent in nature!
What Counts as Time in Nature?
To maximize the benefits of being outside, it’s not about the activity we engage in, it’s about the connection we feel with nature. Almost everyone has the capacity to spend time in nature and can set their own goals, ranging from hiking to sitting in the grass, and anything in between.
Some activity recommendations can include, but are certainly not limited to:
- Taking your family to the park. For anyone living in Spruce Grove, Parks – City of Spruce Grove showcases the multitude of parks and trails in and around the city.
- Going on a ride down a forested bike path.
- Changing your running path to include time in a green space.
- Stargazing.
- Gardening.
- Visiting a beach.
- Exercising outdoors.
- Enjoying a meal outside, alone or with friends.
- Doing yoga in your backyard. Find out how yoga is beneficial to your mental health!
What If It’s Not Possible to Get Outside?
For those unable to get outside, there are also benefits to bringing nature indoors; here are some ideas:
- Playing nature sounds.
- Using room sprays that mimic nature scents like flowers or petrichor.
- Having a small fountain.
- Keeping potted plants (living or artificial).
- Opening windows to let fresh air and natural light in.
How Can We Be Sure We Connected with Nature?
This can definitely be tricky. Much of connecting with nature lies in mindful awareness of your surroundings. Usually the biggest sign that you’re reaping the benefits is a feeling of relaxation within your body. Racing thoughts may slow down and awareness of your surroundings should heighten, such as noticing the warmth of the sun on your skin or the feeling of grass beneath your feet. Overall, the biggest indicator is the decrease in stress; which looks different for everyone.
If you’re really struggling with feeling connected, it can be helpful to minimize distractions, practice mindfulness exercises, make a list of aspects of nature you’re grateful for, or simply make a list of things you notice in nature. Check out our blog, The Power of Just Being, to find out how to be more mindful in everyday life.
Final Thoughts
Spending time in nature boasts a plethora of benefits and has the bonus of being an easily accessible way for anyone to enjoy the summer months; grab your sunscreen and a big water bottle and enjoy some fun in the sun (or under the shade of a tree)!
If you have any more questions about how to make the most of the summer months, we invite you to reach us at 780-446-0300 or at info@dochaspsych.com.
References
Harvard School of Public Health – Time in Nature Can Boost Physical and Mental Well-being
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
