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Nature as Medicine: Simple Ways the Outdoors Heal Your Mind

Woman looking peacefully sitting alongside a creek located in a forest.

The great outdoors! Full of wonder and fields of limitless opportunities, our outside world can often feel as if it holds the key to unlocking various parts of our minds. From large mountains to tranquil lakes, each step we take within nature brings a new sense of freedom and connection, reminding us of the beauty that exists beyond the limits of our daily lives. For many of us, our immediate surroundings can often bring on various emotions, whether positive or negative, but it’s important that we know that nature, with its vast beauty and tranquility, offers more than just a soothing escape — it also provides powerful therapeutic benefits. 

Outside activities often offer a refreshing break to our common routines, allowing us to engage with nature in ways that we have not before. Whether it’s having a solo picnic, running alongside a local creek, or taking on a mountainous hike, these activities can provide opportunities for us to be one with nature, but more importantly, with ourselves. What activities you decide to engage in outside are up to you, but no matter the venture, know that there are several benefits to simply being outside! 


Here are 4 life-changing benefits of Spending Time Outdoors:


  1. Decreases Anxiety and Depression

Woman with her eyes closed looking relaxed as sun rays shine on her face.

According to research, spending time in nature can significantly benefit mental health by reducing anxiety, stress, and anger, while promoting better sleep and concentration. Regular access to green spaces has been linked to lower risks of depression and improved social interactions. Outdoor activities, especially those in natural settings like hiking, increases daily exposure to natural light which helps regulate sleep cycles, improving sleep quality. 


  1. Increases Relaxation

Woman laying down in a field of grass looking relaxed with her arms supporting her head.

Studies show that spending time in natural environments can lower feelings of isolation, reduce rumination, decrease anxiety, and improve mood. Nature also enhances cognitive function and provides restorative effects, helping individuals feel more relaxed and emotionally rejuvenated. This aligns with ecopsychology, which emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of connecting with the natural world.


  1. Promotes Self-Esteem

Woman embracing herself by the waterside.

As suggested by experts, being outdoors, whether it’s hiking in the woods or just strolling through a park, can help you feel calmer and more grounded. Nature gives you space to clear your mind, reflect, and feel more connected to yourself, which can make you feel more confident and positive about who you are! It’s like a natural reset button that lets you step away from everyday stress and remind yourself that you are capable!


  1. Improves Physical Health 

Woman in black workout gear stretching her arms in front of trees in a forest.

Nature has been shown to reduce stress hormones like cortisol, ease muscle tension, and lower heart rate and blood pressure, leading to better cardiovascular health. Regular exposure to the outdoors may also reduce the risk of heart disease and increase vitamin D levels, which are essential for bone health, immune function, and overall physical health.




Don’t know where or how to get started on your journey to wellness? Download our free My Journey to Wellness Workbook. This workbook is intended to aid on your wellness journey by helping you to evaluate your goals, assess your future plans and take action. At Wellness Tree Counseling, we're dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey. If you’re looking for some guidance on how to start, we invite you to reach out to us! Contact us today to book your intake screening call.


 

 

About Wellness Tree Counseling...

 

Our mission at Wellness Tree Counseling is to promote wellness through a culturally sensitive lens so that individuals, families and communities are encouraged to rise to their full potential and engage life in meaningful ways.


Our vision is to provide the BIPOC community with comprehensive holistic care that empowers and equips them with skills to work toward improved mental health and well-being. We take great pride in treating the whole-person.


At Wellness Tree Counseling, we value treating our clients and community with C.A.R.E. (Compassion, Affirming, Respect, & Empathy).


To learn more about our services, please visit www.wellnesstreecounseling.com

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