Many of us who work in the concrete jungles that make up our cities are stressed by these settings, which include not just the busy streets but also the hard, lifeless architecture. There's a concept that connecting with nature helps our mental health. With Earth Day 2022 coming up on April 22nd, now is a great opportunity to think about what you can do for nature and what nature can do for you. As the number of people living in cities has risen in recent decades, it has become even more important to connect with nature. The less time we spend in nature, the less likely we are to meet diseases and develop a healthy immune system in response. Nature's various sensory stimulation, such as breathing clean, fresh air, listening to sweet bird melodies, and feeling the chilly, soft grass beneath your feet, is enough to bring you back to the present moment. This demonstrates how critical it is to begin practising nature therapy.
Nature Therapy is a service-oriented and nature-based practice within the ecotherapy framework. It entails enabling people to help the environment, establish relationships, learn new skills, connect with others, and find a feeling of purpose and satisfaction. The notion of nature therapy carries a certain weight. Sure, stepping outside feels nice, but most of us don't have the time or money to go forest bathing or go on multi-day mountain hikes.
People who live and engage in green areas report feeling more energised, having better overall health, and having a greater sense of purpose in their lives. Furthermore, nature provides several advantages for the human brain, as evidenced by enhanced enjoyment, health, and cognition. However, in our increasingly screen-dominated urban lifestyles, we're lucky if we see a tree every day, much alone have the opportunity to engage in a full-fledged mindfulness experience.
So, if you live in a concrete jungle, we've compiled a list of methods to practise mindfulness outdoors.
It's not about organising a trip to one of the world's most stunning natural locations; it's about just getting outside, no matter where you are. As long as you bring a sense of purpose to the experience, a park, a garden, or even a single tree may send a powerful dosage of nature therapy into your life.
It's not enough to merely look at anything green to reap the benefits of nature for your health. To boost your attention and productivity, you must actually watch nature and find something appealing about it.
Gardening is not for everyone since not everyone has the necessary space. Simply placing a few indoor houseplants about your home may provide you with the dosage of green you may be missing in the city.
Hugging a tree raises oxytocin levels in the body. This hormone is in charge of relaxation and emotional connection. The neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine help you feel happier when you hug a tree.
When was the last time you went outside barefoot? You might want to take off your shoes if it's been a while. Going barefoot might encourage you in connecting with the environment. Even if you're walking on concrete, those free electrons are still conducted on the earth's surface. The steadiness of the soil underneath you may help you feel grounded, which can help you unwind.
