9 benefits the outdoors has on your mental health

22 December, 2023

Spending time in nature has long been known to have a variety of benefits for the body and mind, and research has shown that the outdoors has a particularly positive impact on mental health.

From reducing stress and symptoms of depression and anxiety to boosting mood, self-esteem, and creativity, the benefits of spending time in nature are numerous. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply enjoy spending time in your backyard, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the mental health benefits that nature offers.

Let us explore nine ways in which the outdoors positively impacts mental health, backed by research and real-life examples.

1. Nature as a Stress-Relieving Environment Spending time in nature has long been associated with stress relief. The peacefulness and tranquility of natural surroundings can provide a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Research has shown that exposure to nature can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps slow down the body's response to stress.

2. Reduced Levels of Stress Hormones in Nature Spending time in nature can actually reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. A study conducted by the University of Queensland found that even just a short walk in a park or other green space can have a significant impact on cortisol levels, leading to decreased feelings of stress and anxiety.

3. Physical Activity and its Effect on Mood Engaging in physical activity has been shown to boost mood and improve overall mental health. When combined with the benefits of being outdoors, the effect can be even more profound. Activities such as hiking, biking, or swimming can release endorphins, which are the body's natural feel-good chemicals.

4. Benefits of Green Spaces on Mental Health The presence of greenery and natural surroundings has been linked to improved mental health outcomes. Exposure to natural environments has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, increase feelings of calmness and relaxation, and improve overall mood. Research has also found that individuals who live in areas with more green space have lower levels of reported mental distress.

5. Effects of Fresh Air on Mental Health Fresh air has numerous benefits for mental health. In addition to reducing feelings of stress, being outdoors and breathing in clean air can increase feelings of vitality and energy. Exposure to natural light can also impact overall mental health, as the body requires sunlight to produce vitamin D, which is important in regulating mood.

6. Nature as a Natural Anti-Anxiety Treatment Nature can also be an effective anti-anxiety treatment. In a study published in Frontiers in Psychology, researchers found that exposure to natural environments can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety. The authors suggest that the benefits of nature can be attributed to the calming and restorative effects it has on the brain and nervous system.

We've all experienced moments when we feel creatively blocked and struggle to come up with new ideas. According to research, spending time in nature can help unleash our creative potential. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that spending just four days in nature can significantly improve creativity by 50%. Nature has a way of sparking our imagination, providing us with new perspectives, and inspiring us to think outside the box.

7. Exercise and its Effect on Mental Health Exercise is a proven way to improve mental health, particularly in managing anxiety and depression. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that make us feel good and improve our mood. Exercise also helps reduce stress and boost self-esteem. According to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, exercise has been shown to be as effective as medication in treating depression.

Exercise in nature provides additional benefits for mental health. Studies have shown that exercising outside can reduce mental fatigue and improve self-esteem and mood. Activities like hiking, cycling, and running in natural environments provide a more immersive and enjoyable experience, which can lead to greater adherence to exercise programs.

8. Connection with Nature and Mindfulness Mindfulness refers to the practice of being present and aware of the present moment. Spending time in nature can help us achieve mindfulness by providing us with a peaceful and quiet environment. Nature has a way of allowing us to slow down, relax, and focus on our surroundings. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that time spent in nature can improve mindfulness and reduce symptoms of stress.

Connecting with nature can also promote a stronger mind-body connection. Activities like yoga, meditation, and Tai Chi can be practiced in natural environments and help us tune into our bodies and surroundings. Being present in nature can help us feel more connected to ourselves and our environment, leading to greater feelings of inner peace and serenity.

9. Nature as a Source of Meaning and Purpose Nature can also provide us with a sense of meaning and purpose. Interacting with the natural environment can help us feel more connected to something larger than ourselves, leading to a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it's taking a walk in the woods, tending to a garden, or simply sitting outside and enjoying the fresh air, incorporating more time in nature into your routine can have a positive impact on your mental and emotional wellbeing. So if you're feeling stressed, anxious, or simply in need of a mood boost, consider stepping outside and taking advantage of all that the outdoors has to offer.