If you’re in the process of recovering from a mental health crisis, it’s common to feel out of sync with the world around you. The things that once brought joy might now feel overwhelming, and emotions like anxiety or numbness can take over. But there’s a simple, often overlooked remedy that can help you reconnect—nature. Whether it’s a peaceful walk in the park, sitting quietly by the water, or just soaking in the fresh air, time spent in nature offers a sense of calm and healing that can support your recovery in ways you might not expect.
Benefits of Nature for Mental Health
Connecting with nature can be a powerful way to support your mental health. Here’s how spending time outdoors can make a difference:
- Reduce stress and anxiety: When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, nature has a calming effect. Whether you’re walking in a forest, sitting by a lake, or enjoying a garden, being outdoors lowers cortisol levels, your body’s stress hormone. This helps relax both your mind and body.
- Boost your mood and positivity: Nature can lift your spirits if you’ve been feeling down. Exposure to nature increases serotonin production, a brain chemical that enhances mood. Physical activities like walking or hiking also release endorphins, making you feel better both mentally and physically.
- Encourage mindfulness: Nature encourages mindfulness, which means staying in the moment without judgment. Surrounded by the beauty of trees, mountains, or water, it becomes easier to focus on the present rather than letting your thoughts wander.
- Rebuild connections with others: Struggling with mental health can feel isolating. Nature offers a gentle way to reconnect with loved ones. Sharing outdoor activities—whether it’s a simple walk or just sitting in a park—can strengthen your relationships and create a sense of belonging.
- Restore focus and clarity: After a mental health crisis, it can be hard to concentrate. Spending time in green spaces can sharpen your focus, improve decision-making, and help your brain recover from mental fatigue.
Simple Ways to Include Nature in Your Recovery
You don’t need to go on a grand adventure to benefit from nature. There are plenty of easy ways to bring the outdoors into your daily routine, no matter your activity level, where you live, or how much time you have. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Take a walk in a nearby park: Whether it’s a five-minute stroll or an hour-long walk, being surrounded by trees, plants, and fresh air can lift your spirits. Try to make it a regular habit, even if it’s just once or twice a week. If you are in the Kingsport, Tennessee area, consider visiting Bays Mountain.
- Spend time by water: Sitting by a lake, river, or even a small pond can have a calming effect. Water has a soothing quality that can help reduce stress and anxiety. If you can’t access a body of water, try listening to water sounds or a nature soundtrack for a similar sense of calm.Â
- Garden: If you have access to a garden, spending time planting or taking care of plants can be incredibly grounding. You can even grow a few plants indoors if outdoor space is limited. Watching plants thrive under your care can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
- Outdoor meditation or yoga: Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or yoga outdoors adds a special element of calm and connection to your practice. Nature’s calming presence can help you stay focused, centered, and at peace during your sessions.
- Sit outside with a journal: If you enjoy writing, take your journal outside. Let the sounds and sights of nature inspire your thoughts and help you process your feelings. Even spending 10–15 minutes in the fresh air can help you gain clarity and feel more at ease.
If getting out in nature isn’t easy for you, there are still ways to bring the benefits of the outdoors into your life. You can bring elements of nature into your home by adding houseplants, placing your chair near a sunny window, or even listening to nature sounds like birdsong or ocean waves.
If you’re recovering from a mental health crisis and looking for holistic ways to support your journey, our team is here to help. At Creekside Behavioral Health in Kingsport, Tennessee, we offer a range of mental health services designed to help address mental health challenges. Please contact us today to learn more.
