Benefits of ‘Being in Nature’

Immersing ourselves in our natural environment can be immensely therapeutic and can cost very little, if nothing at all. In Australia we are blessed with an abundance of open spaces. Beaches, National Parks, walking tracks or local reserves allow us to connect and benefit from being close to living things. We can breathe in fresh air, the scent of eucalyptus or native bushland, usually not too far from our homes. Yet for those who encounter barriers to access such places, benefits can also be found in our gardens and streets or within our homes. Connecting with ‘everyday’ nature can be established for anyone, emphasising interaction via activities such as planting, photographing, listening, and caring.

Many contemporary forms of therapy incorporate the benefits of the natural environment, and this is supported by an increasing amount research on the environment’s positive effects on our physical and mental health. Developing a connection to our natural surroundings has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, promoting creativity, and increasing positive feelings of joy and motivation. It has been shown to improve cognitive function, blood pressure, reduce stress and have positive effects on mental health. Simply noticing and appreciating aspects of our natural world can be enough to establish and maintain connection.

Think about the things that made you most happy as a child. Often people include swimming at the beaches or in rivers or lakes. Exploring coastal rockpools or walking in the bush. Many of our freedoms as children were encountered in nature, bringing new experiences, and developing an understanding of how we fit into our worlds. Remove as much of the urban landscape as possible, the clutter, the traffic, concrete and manufactured noise. Try to regain a sense of the childlike wonder for what naturally exists around you.

For more information please see:

https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature

https://anzmh.asn.au/blog/mental-health/great-outdoors-boost-your-mental-health

https://www.desi.qld.gov.au/our-department/news-media/down-to-earth/nurture-your-mental-wellbeing-with-nature