Just a Little Bit of Nature: The Outdoors and Mental Health

 

A little patch of grass. Feeling the trunk of a tree. Birds chirping in the morning. Did you know that spending time in nature can benefit both your physical and mental health?

Why Nature Heals
In Japanese culture, it is called Forest bathing, or "shinrin-yoku," a practice of immersing yourself in a natural environment. Nature provides space to breathe, both physically and mentally; fresh air, natural light, and open spaces. These all help lower cortisol levels, reducing stress, and boosting serotonin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical which results in reduced anxiety, better focus, and an overall clearer mind.

Being outdoors also encourages mindfulness where the sights and sounds help us stay present, whether we’re listening to birds or watching the wind move through the trees. 

Simple Ways to Reconnect
Many of us don't have a nearby forest or area to truly immerse ourselves in nature on a daily basis, so understand that reconnecting with nature doesn’t require grand gestures. Start small by stepping outside for a few minutes each day to find an interesting tree or go walk on some grass. Take a morning walk, eat lunch, or spend time in a local park. Pay attention to the environment around you—feel the breeze, listen to the sounds, and notice the colors.

Make it a Habit
Give yourself the gift of doing this as much as you can, ideally every day, as consistency is key. The more time you spend outdoors, the more you’ll feel the benefits on your mental health. Schedule weekly activities like hikes, visits to the beach, or simply sitting by a river. Make time for you and nature and you'll start to see some benefit from it in no time.