In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Many of us live in cities or urban areas where people are busy and often struggling to keep up with themselves. As a result, we can sometimes feel disconnected from ourselves and our surroundings. We might feel like we don’t have the time, space, or freedom in our lives, and we seek to balance this out through shopping, watching TV, going on holiday, or other distractions that cost time or money. However, research has shown that reconnecting to ourselves through nature can be a powerful and therapeutic way to counteract this disconnect.

Backed by Science

In a study conducted by the University of Derby, researchers found that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on our mental health. The study looked at the experiences of people who engaged in “green exercise,” which is any physical activity that takes place in a natural environment. The results showed that people who engaged in green exercise reported significantly lower levels of stress, anxiety, and depression than those who did not. The study also found that people who engaged in green exercise reported increased feelings of calmness, relaxation, and revitalization.

Making the Time and Taking the Opportunities

So how can we reconnect to ourselves through nature, no matter where we live? One way is to find a park or woodland nearby. Even in the heart of a busy city, there are usually green spaces where we can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. By taking a walk, doing some yoga, or just sitting quietly in nature, we can start to slow down and reconnect with ourselves.

It’s essential to adopt a mindset where we value and embrace these opportunities to slow down and reconnect. We need to recognize the importance of taking the time to nurture our mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s a short walk during our lunch break or a weekend hike, we need to make time for ourselves in nature.

In addition to benefiting our mental health, spending time in nature can also have physical health benefits. Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and boost our immune systems. So not only are we reconnecting to ourselves, but we’re also improving our overall health.

Embracing Nature at Home

A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that having plants in our homes can improve our mental health and well-being. The study found that people who had plants in their homes reported lower levels of stress and anxiety and higher levels of overall life satisfaction than those who did not.

Growing New Mindsets

But it’s not just about having plants in our homes; it’s also about taking the time to garden and be outside. Gardening provides us with an opportunity to reflect and grow, both literally and figuratively. When we plant a seed or a sapling, we are creating something new and nurturing it as it grows. This process can be incredibly therapeutic and fulfilling.

Visiting New Places

Additionally, being outside in nature provides us with a sense of connection and perspective. When we step outside and immerse ourselves in nature, we are reminded of the vastness and beauty of the world around us. This can help us put our own lives and problems into perspective, and it can also give us a sense of peace and calmness.

Creating Balance in our Lives

Taking the time to garden and be outside doesn’t have to be a major commitment. Even a small container garden on a balcony or windowsill can provide us with the benefits of nurturing and growing something, and it can also provide a sense of connection to nature. A walk in a local park or a trip to some woodlands or wild meadows can often be far more benificial than watching a box set on Netflix!

The benefits of spending time with plants and in nature are clear. Even just having a few plants in our homes can improve our mental health and well-being, while gardening and being outside allows us time to reflect and grow. By incorporating these activities into our daily lives, we can nurture our mental and physical health, and create a deeper connection with ourselves and the natural world.

We can all benefit from taking the time to reconnect to ourselves through nature. Whether we live in a city or rural area, we can find ways to incorporate nature into our daily lives. By valuing and embracing these opportunities, we can improve our mental and physical well-being, and create a deeper connection with ourselves and our surroundings.