Let’s Get Outdoors! Nature Activities For Mental Health

Nature has the power to heal us. In fact, research has found that spending as little as 20 minutes in a natural setting can lower cortisol levels by up to 20%.

Cortisol is a primary stress hormone and a key indicator of stress. Even a brief spell in the great outdoors can drastically reduce cortisol levels. This can be a useful step towards improving your overall mental health.

In today’s fast-paced world, nature can offer a sense of calmness and even joy or satisfaction - a sanctuary that can help with issues of depression or anxiety.

In this article, we’ll explore how being in nature can improve our mental wellbeing.

The link between being in nature and mental health

• Exactly how does nature improve mental health?
  The therapeutic effect of being in nature is known as the biophilia hypothesis. Essentially this describes how we connect to nature.
• Being outside and mental health - the cognitive benefits
  Multiple studies show how being in nature can improve cognitive function and alleviate mental fatigue. Spending time in nature also boosts creativity and sharpens problem-solving skills.
• Stress reduction
  There are measurable physiological responses to being in nature, including reduced cortisol levels and a lower heart rate.
• Mood enhancement
  Nature can elevate mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular exposure to the natural world can also build mental resilience and stability. Natural daylight also helps those who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Now that we know why nature is good for mental health, what can we do to integrate this into our daily lives?

Nature activities for mental health benefits

If you’ve been reading our blogs for a while, you’ll already know that exercise is a great way to support mental wellbeing. When you combine exercise and nature, the benefits are doubled.

Exercise releases endorphins and a natural setting enhances the effects. Have you considered:

• Walking
• Hiking
• Jogging
• Bike riding
• Gardening
• Wild swimming
• A dip in your local lido
• Kayaking
• Fishing
• Outdoor yoga

Nature as a form of therapy

Ecotherapy integrates nature into therapeutic practices, such as:

• Forest bathing - or Shinrin-Yoku - the Japanese practice of immersing oneself in the forest
• Mindfulness - mindful walking and nature meditation

Tips for incorporating nature into your life

Here are some simple ways to get outside more:

1. Take a daily walk
2. Have an outdoor break during work or study
3. Create a green space at home, on your balcony or yard
4. Visit your local community gardens (if you live in a town)
5. Meet a friend for a walk and talk
6. Take a book and read in the park
7. Pack up a picnic and go to your nearest beach
8. Enjoy your morning tea or coffee outside
9. Capture photos of your nearest nature park
10. Volunteering for outdoor projects

How to enhance your outdoor activities

Whatever you plan on doing outside - from gardening to walking your dog - your comfort is key. Here are some tips to boost your time spent in nature:

1. Stay nourished and hydrated
   If you’re going to be outside for some time, it’s important to bring some fresh water along to ensure you stay hydrated. Fruit, nuts or a granola bar will keep you energised.
2. Protect your skin
   Wearing an SPF is important. UV rays can be fierce, even if it’s not a very hot or sunny day (hey - we’re in the UK!). If you’re going on a hike, it’s worth taking a few plasters in case you get a blister.
3. Opt for comfy, suitable footwear
   It’s worth investing in good-quality footwear - that provides support as well as comfort - if you’re planning on walking or hiking.
4. Wear relaxed yet stylish clothing
   Our ethical clothing is made from sustainable materials which have also been selected for their soft feel. Wearing something with a strong message and a comfortable feel will increase your enjoyment of your chosen outdoor activity.
   Check out our top picks:
   • Unisex organic cotton Ts: Perfect for casual meet-ups with friends.
   • Black camo yoga leggings: Sleek, squat-proof and ideal for outdoor yoga.
   • Organic cotton hoodies: Soft, snuggly and perfect for cooler weather.
   • Cosy hoodie dress: Cozy and practical for after a refreshing outdoor swim.
5. Plan ahead
   For walks and hikes, it’s important to know where you’re going and approximately how long it will take. For your own safety, you should let others know your plans and timescales.
6. Download a nature app
   Seeing trees, plants, flowers or wildlife and hearing birdsong are peaceful benefits of being outside. If you’re someone who likes to learn, why not download a nature app to help identify what you’re seeing and hearing?

Feeling inspired?

Hopefully our suggestions about nature activities for mental health have sparked some ideas. When we make a conscious effort to spend more time outdoors, the benefits of the experience can be amazing.

USEFUL LINKS

Mind, mental health charity for tips and ideas to improve mental wellbeing

NHS mental health services

Help and over-the-phone support from Samaritans

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