Spending time in the great outdoors can have a positive effect on your mental wellbeing. Do you ever feel more positive after a long walk in the countryside? Or, if you’re more adventurous, after a hike? That’s the harmonious relationship between mental health and nature at work. As well as outdoor exercise (for more information on exercise and mental health click here), simply spending time in a green space has been clinically proven to give us the feel-good factor. Here’s why:
Spending time outdoors is known to lower your cortisol levels – which consequently helps reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Being outdoors boosts your Vitamin D levels – which helps to reduce feelings of depression. There is also a proven link between our physical and our mental wellbeing – outdoor exercise helps build confidence and improve self-esteem!
Not only does spending time in the great outdoors have numerous benefits on your mental health, but it can also help you maintain focus when completing everyday tasks. If you are struggling to focus, or simply looking for some inspiration from Mother Nature – we recommend taking a break and heading straight for your nearest green space.
We understand that it isn’t always practical to get outside, so why not improvise? Studies have shown that people with plants and greenery throughout their room or office are likely to be 15% more productive. Get yourself to the nearest garden centre and add some greenery to your personal spaces.
Nature can help our mental wellbeing in many ways. It’s important to take some time for yourself – there’s no one size fits all solution. If you are struggling with your mental health, it may be worth spending time with nature to see if it works for you.
At Northern Healthcare, we highlight the importance of the great outdoors at each of our services – ensuring that all residents can enjoy nature whenever they wish.
For more information on life in our homes follow us on social media.
