TOP TIPS FOR CONNECTING WITH NATURE
Today marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week. The theme for this year, as chosen by the Mental Health Foundation, is Nature. The pandemic brought to light how many of us use nature as a coping strategy, with many of us prioritising going for walks, spending more time in green spaces, and finding comfort in watching wildlife. However, as restrictions to start to ease many of us may be experiencing greater levels of anxiety as our routines change once more and we edge out of our comfort zones. It’s important to not lose that connection, and that’s why this week we are sharing out top tips for connecting with nature. These are simple tips, that are easy to implement. You don’t have to climb a mountain to reap the mental health benefits:
Take your practice outdoors - Being physically active outdoors has been shown to reduce anger and depression and improve mood - more than exercising indoors. Not only will it stimulate your body’s production of endorphins (feel-good hormones), you will also increase your exposure to vitamin D from being out in the sun, which is important for mood regulation. Try doing one of our live classes outdoors this week, or we recommend trying Evelyn’s 15 Outdoor HIIT workout (specifically designed to be taken outside)
Watch the sunrise - Our lives can be so busy that we rarely stop to give ourselves time to be still. Welcoming the day watching the sunrise, means that we start the day slow and truly connect with nature. The blue light that is outside in the early morning will also give you a natural energy boost (no need for coffee!).
Try a walking meditation - Walking meditations can also be an awesome way to bring a sense of peace and calm to the mind. It’s an active practice that requires you to be consciously aware and moving in the environment rather than sitting down with your eyes closed. It’s a simple form of meditation that can be particularly valuable for beginners or anyone who prefers a more active form of this practice. Mindful walking can lead to a unique set of benefits compared with its seated counterpart. The practice brings you closer to nature as well as your body. Learn more about the benefits of walking meditation and try Jenny’s 10 minute walking meditation here.
Sow some seeds - Gardening has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood, resulting in a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety. Gardening can also result in a sense of achievement, boosting confidence and self-esteem as you see your hard work blossom. Want to feel the benefits, but don’t know where to start? Check out Fran, from Modern Kitchen Garden (a no-dig market garden on the Isle of Wight) top tips for growing your own produce.
Take your breakfast outdoors - Start your day away from a screen and enjoy your breakfast outside. Take time to listen to the sounds of nature and notice the different sensations. We recommend these granola smoothie breakfast pots!
6. Capture the beauty of nature - Try increasing your sense of connection with nature through art. This could be through taking photographs, journalling, or painting pictures of the landscape, plants or animals. By really taking the time to stop and capture the beauty of nature you can help to reduce stress and improve your mood. Not sure where to start, read about the benefits of mindful art here and check out Sketchbook By Bethany’s Spring Flowers Tutorial.