I grew up in the city, surrounded by more cement than grass and our closest neighborhood park was not celebrated for its beautiful trees or trails, but simply because it boasted our community’s only inground swimming pool.
It wasn’t until later in life when I moved across the street from a 4000-acre Metropark that my deep love and appreciation for nature firmly took hold. When my eight-year-old son was diagnosed with a life-threatening disease my life changed drastically. I was not only terrified, but I also began to suffer from anxiety, depression, and insomnia. With little time for self-care or therapy, a friend suggested getting out for a walk on the park’s nature trails.
The benefits were immediate and just as important, lasting. No matter how anxious or stressed I felt at the start of my walk, in as little as five minutes, a much-welcomed calmness would begin to seep into my body. Each step brought me a greater sense of peace and wellbeing that made my days a little easier.
My time in nature pulled me through some dark days and every moment spent inhaling clean fresh air and watching in wonder all the birds and animals felt like the greatest discovery of my life. I began to research Nature Therapy, sometimes referred to as Ecotherapy, and found that others, even healthcare professionals, were loving it too.
Studies show that time spent in nature not only decreases anxiety, depression, and stress, but also lowers blood pressure, and so important, encourages you to get moving.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” -John Burroughs
What to do if your schedule currently has little wiggle room for an enjoyable nature walk? Start by opening a window. Let some fresh air flow in. Place a bird feeder under your office window and bring nature indoors by adding a few plants throughout your home.
Take whatever breaks you can outside. Even five minutes outdoors will bring significant benefits and consider creating a Zen spot in your yard just for you. It can be as simple as a few plants, a chair, and perhaps some windchimes.
Want to head out to a park and not sure where to go? Check out Park-Rx America (https://parkrxamerica.org), a non-profit organization whose mission is to get people outdoors, in nature, and moving.
Regardless of how you do it, take advantage of these last months of summer and enjoy the great outdoors!
