Do you need some nature therapy? Most of us spend too much time indoors and behind screens and could use some time outdoors in nature.
Our mental health and well being can be significantly improved by spending some time in nature. Of course, to do this, you must go out into nature and avoid the temptation to use your phone or other electronic devices. Simple spend time in the natural world by hiking, walking, or finding your favorite place to sit peacefully and enjoy the world around you.
Here are several ways nature therapy can improve your mental health.
Improve your sleep quality
Have you ever felt sleepy and tired after spending time outdoors? This is a normal occurrence, especially at the end of the day. Exposure to natural light helps regulate your internal body clock, which leads to a more restful night. You’ll also produce serotonin while in nature, which promotes relaxation and improves your mood. Finally, being in nature lowers cortisol released during stressful times, making it much easier for you to rest, relax, and enjoy a high-quality night of sleep.
Fewer symptoms of depression
Vitamin D plays a huge role in regulating your mood and reducing symptoms of depression. The best way to get the vitamin D you need is to spend time in the sunlight. Being in nature gives you that vitamin, but it also allows you to take a break from the stress and pressure that contributes to negative emotions and thoughts. If you can put those things out of your mind, you’ll feel much less depressed. Additionally, walking, hiking, and gardening give you a sense of accomplishment, which is a positive feeling.
You’ll feel less angry and aggressive
Do you have pent-up anger that you need to get out of your system? When you head outside for some nature therapy, that anger often goes away. The natural beauty of an outdoor setting, including a forest or beach, allows you to enjoy a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Nature is a great place to release any anger, frustration, or aggression you might be feeling toward another person or situation. You can channel those feelings into physical activities and turn them into healthy emotions and hobbies.
Build your self-esteem
If you spend time in nature, you can feel improved self-esteem. Being in nature gives you a sense of accomplishment and self-efficacy. Those activities that require energy and dedication provide you with that feeling once you’ve completed each goal. Being in nature removes the societal pressures and expectations that often come with being in a work setting. This allows you to feel much better about yourself and what you accomplish when you go into nature. You’re only competing with yourself on the hiking trails.
Fewer distractions improves mental health
The natural environment is unique and allows individuals to manage distractions, improve cognitive function, and strengthen their memory. Nature therapy is extremely important to release mental clutter and distractions that lead to your inability to concentrate. Sometimes, a short walk along a nature trail is all it takes to get your concentration back. Of course, this could also be accomplished with an hour spent outside in your gardens, where you tend to your favorite plants and enjoy them.
Build meaningful relationships
You don’t have to spend all of your time in nature alone. If you spend time outdoors with friends, family members, or a group of coworkers, you’ll have the opportunity for uninterrupted and meaningful conversations. The lack of distractions makes it easier to engage with another person or group without the same issues arising that typically appear when you have your phone, screens, a schedule, or other normal worldly distractions. If you really want to connect with others, spend some time in nature with them and leave your distractions behind.
Improve your motivation
Why do we often feel more rundown during the winter months than at other times of the year? We don’t spend as much time getting the nature therapy we need in winter because it can be cold and dark. Nature inspires and rejuvenates people, and when you’re out in nature for a few hours each day, you’ll have a greater sense of motivation. Natural sensory experiences allow you to be more curious and spark your desire to learn, which can be extremely motivating.
Are you getting enough nature therapy? If you’re feeling rundown, depressed, or can’t sleep well, you might need to get outside and away from worldly distractions. Spend some time in nature and improve your mental health; it will do wonders for you.