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Written By: Tess Paul
The phrase, “reconnect with nature” has been a popular saying among social media as of recently, and although often spoken in a playful manner, it may not have an entirely wrong idea.
During this new digitally-dominated age, it can often be difficult, or even deemed unnecessary, to find the time to spend outdoors. However, “‘there is mounting evidence, from dozens and dozens of researchers, that nature has benefits for both physical and psychological human wellbeing,’ says Lisa Nisbet, PhD, a psychologist at Trent University in Ontario, Canada, who studies connectedness to nature’ (American Psychological Association 3). Exposure to nature has been linked to improved attention, lower stress, an improved mood, reduced risks of loneliness or psychiatric conditions, and more inclination to empathy and cooperation. Even the smallest interaction with nature, like a stroll down your street, can boost your relaxation levels. Additionally, interactions with nature are not limited to exercise, for example, gardening or even going out with friends contribute to these improved feelings.
It’s time for you to use nature to your advantage. People who struggle on a daily basis mentally, no matter the extent of the severity, seek and find comfort in nature. The ability to breathe in fresh air, be mindful of the environment, and take the time to really slow down and be in the moment often ease anxiety levels and allow you to feel like your best self. People have even found comfort in bird or squirrel watching, stating that it has a “calming effect” and “takes [them] out of [their] own head” (Mind UK 8). Others who find it difficult to participate in something without real purpose, find their place in environmental activism organizations or volunteer work at farms, which provide equally therapeutic experiences.
To make this information more accessible or easier to remember, here are three key takeaways you should try to implement in your daily life.
Spend time in nature - it is linked to cognitive benefits and improvements in mood, mental health and emotional well-being.
Focus on connecting with nature - being mindful of your surroundings produces similar positive effects on well-being, regardless of the duration spent outside.
Find places in your living area to spend time in - green spaces and blue spaces are continually being implemented around the world.
It’s time to be honest. How much of your day are you spending on technology? This post isn’t meant to call you out or criticize your screen time patterns, but rather to evoke some self-reflection. Obviously certain jobs entail long hours working in front of a screen, and others utilize resources or programs that can only be found on the internet; however, the real question is if you are actively doing anything to limit your technology use outside of that. Sure, dopamine hits from TikTok do provide some level of comfort to the average person, but none of it is real. None of it is built on positive energy. Positive energy is found all around you. In nature. So step away from the phone a little. Take a walk around your neighborhood. You’ll be surprised to find how much you enjoy the breath of fresh air.
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