Five ways nature can heal your mental health

Here are some tips on how to use nature to heal both your mental and physical health

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Mental Health Foundation

Looking after our mental health and wellbeing is important for everyone, and there are things that each of us can do in our day-to-day lives that can help to support good mental health, including connecting to nature.

Many of us live a fast-paced urban life, with long working days and time-consuming, crowded commutes. In these environments there are many pressures that affect our mental health; this is why it is worth making the time for nature, in whatever way works for you, even when things get busy and other priorities feel more important.

There are lots of ways in which spending time in nature can be positive for our mental health and wellbeing – from gaining a sense of peace and a boost to our self-esteem, to improved concentration and psychological restoration. 

New and exciting research is being undertaken all the time that adds to our understanding of how the natural environment affects the health of our bodies and minds. The reasons why time in nature has these effects on us are complex and still being understood. The benefits are often related to how our senses connect us to the environment around us, from the shapes we see in nature to the scents of trees and flowers and the soft fascination that nature can stimulate which helps our minds to rest.

Time in green spaces 

Across multiple studies, researchers have found a fascinating link between access to green spaces – such as fields, forests, parks and gardens – and a reduced risk of mental health problems, improved mood and increased life satisfaction. Other benefits include reduced stress, increased physical activity, and better physical health.

Staying active

An important link has been found between spending time outdoors and how physically active we are. Besides the benefits for our physical health, exercising and staying active is also good for our mental health. We know that physical activity may reduce the risk of mental health problems, like anxiety or depression, and that exercising in green spaces can have an extra added benefit. Walking or running seems to give us an extra boost when done in natural environments, rather than indoors, reducing feelings of anger, fatigue and sadness.

We don’t even need to do it for long! Exercising in green spaces for as little as five minutes has been found to improve mood and feelings of self-esteem.

Finding nature in the city 

Green spaces are a little more difficult to find in big cities. At first glance, nature can appear to be lost in the urban jungle but if you pause, and take in your surroundings, you might notice that nature can pop up in even the most unlikely places. Signs of nature are threaded throughout our cities; it is worthwhile seeking out these natural spaces, such as parks, canals or courtyards. 

Relaxing and mindfulness

Taking quiet time to reflect on our natural surroundings can be positive for mental health and wellbeing. The practice of ‘mindfulness’ – a way of directing non-judgemental awareness towards our thoughts, feelings, environment and body – has been found to reduce feelings of stress and increase self-compassion and empathy.

Connecting with others 

Having strong, healthy and supportive relationships with those around us is important for our wellbeing. Nature has a link with these relationships as we often use green spaces to meet and socialise with others – in fact, natural spaces can provide a free or low-cost opportunity to get together, and this is another way to support good mental health. 

So, what are you waiting for? Grab that picnic blanket, or umbrella, and arrange a get together in the great outdoors!