The benefits of nature therapy on mental health are numerous and can provide a sense of calm, reduce anxiety, boost mood, and foster creativity. Nature therapy, also known as ecotherapy, has a positive impact on the mind, boosting mental wellness. The science behind nature’s impact on the mind is significant.
Nature therapy is fueled by an increasing awareness of the importance of mental health. While there is a world of guides and therapists who help people connect with nature (including myself), there are simple ways to get the mental benefits of nature on your own. A simple walk, sitting near a body of water, watching a sunset, or exploring the woods are all ways to reap the benefits of nature therapy.
Live in a city? Urban dwellers might have a more difficult time engaging with or connecting to nature. But even most cities have natural areas and inviting green spaces. Here is an article I like. It provides ideas for how urban dwellers can benefit from nature without leaving the city.
For now, let’s look at some of the benefits nature therapy has on the mind.
Nature Provides a Sense of Calm
Scientific research has proven that spending time in a natural environment lowers cortisol. Cortisol, the stress hormone, has been in the news for years. We know it causes problems when it spikes. We know it wreaks havoc on the mind and body. It is widely understood that lower cortisol levels contribute to a calmer mind.
In addition to lowering cortisol levels, nature has the power to boost serotonin, a feel-good chemical. This effectively calms the nervous system and ushers in relaxation. Nature – cortisol + serotonin = a calmer mind.
Nature Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Green space exposure has been proven to lower levels of anxiety and depression. One way is the natural environment can distract the mind from negative thoughts. Again, serotonin is produced outside, through sunlight exposer, effectively promoting positive thinking.
Nature boosts endorphins (feel-good chemicals) and promotes happiness. While nature won’t solve personal problems, it can certainly give your brain a break from acute symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Nature Can Improve Mood
Feeling grumpy? Go outside! The effects of natural sights and sounds foster positive emotions. I’ve sought nature’s remedy to a bad mood more times than I can remember, and it has never failed to get the job done.
Go for a walk, play with a pet in the backyard, or listen to nature sounds (birds, leaves in the wind…) to boost your mood. An added practice is to consider things for which you are grateful while enjoying a natural environment. Gratitude + nature = a good mood!
Natural Environments Foster a Creative Mind
I love all the effects nature has on my mind, but this one is important to me. I’m a creative nature writer! In fact, I feel the need to get outside soon to explore. This practice always inspires me to write about what I see in the natural world.
There have been studies done on the impact nature has on creative problem-solving that, in some cases, resulted in a 50% improvement. That is significant! Disconnecting from the digital world and immersing in nature promotes a wide range of creative ideas. Imagine, nature inspiring imagination. Cool!
Can’t get outside? Read about nature!
Reading about nature can have a positive effect on your mind. From the comfort of your home, you can pick up a book about the natural environment and get some of the same psychological benefits of being outside.
There are many nature books, including these recommendations:
Walden by Henry David Thoreau. This book is a fantastic reflection of natural surroundings.
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson. Take a hike on the Appalachian Trail in this captivating book (it’s funny, too).
Rooted in Nature: Observations from the Wild by Darla Mae Swanson (me!). This book is a compilation of nature exploration and adventures.
Nature. Its therapeutic effects on the mind are backed by science and readily available. Whether you reap the benefits of nature in large, natural places, smaller-sized green spaces in the city, or in the pages of a book, your mind will thank you. Go ahead, find your calm in the wild.
