Written by: Lindsay Diederich, PLPC

Today, we celebrate Earth Day! This annual event, observed on April 22, is a global initiative dedicated to appreciating the beauty of nature and advocating for the health of our planet. Interestingly, caring for the environment is not just about the earth; it’s also about caring for our mental health. The connection between our environment and our mental well-being is profound. 

Research has shown that our connection with nature is not just beneficial, but essential to our mental health and wellness. The absence of ‘greenspaces’ or places such as parks, gardens, playing fields, children’s play areas, woods, and other natural spaces can significantly contribute to mental health issues, higher stress and cortisol levels, and decreased well-being. Also, in our fast-paced, technology-driven world, we spend a significant portion of our day interacting with our phones, computers, tablets, and televisions. This disconnects us from the amazing natural world around us and opportunities for connection with others. These facts highlight the need to prioritize spending time outdoors, away from screens, to improve your mental health and relationships with others.

Engaging with nature is associated with some incredible benefits. It can improve cognitive functioning, physical and emotional health, and social connection. People who spend more time outdoors and engage with nature tend to be happier and physically healthier, experience improved mood and sense of well-being, are less stressed and have more positive social interactions.

So, what are some easy ways to get outside and connect with nature? There are many small changes you can make to your day that can reap huge benefits. Below are some outdoor activities to consider and although it’s tempting… don’t bring your phone!

• Start your day outside, sip your morning coffee or tea while soaking up the sun and breathing in some fresh air 
• Go for a mindfulness walk around your neighborhood in morning, afternoon, and/or evening
• Take a break from work or school and go outside for a few minutes
• Eat lunch outside in a park or outdoor space
• Spend time in a neighborhood park–playing on the playground with your kids, engaging in sports, having a picnic, or just walking and talking with a partner or friend
• Go for a bike ride or try roller blading
• Plant a garden in your backyard
• Help plant trees and flowers in your neighborhood or community 
• Combine nature with creativity. Go outside and draw or paint
• Find a quiet spot under a tree or on a park bench and spend time journaling or meditating
• Take up birdwatching
• Connect with animals. Go outside with your pet, and spend time playing or connecting with them. Observing how they wholeheartedly engage with the outside world
• Bring nature inside your home or workspace, add indoor plants, and find ways to let more natural sunlight into these indoor spaces
• Plan a weekend nature adventure. You may be surprised by how close hiking trails, lakes, and nature parks are to where you live. Go exploring!
• Plan a trip to go camping or visit a national park

References:

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8125471/
• https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5663018/
• https://www.lcmchealth.org/university-medical-center-new-orleans/blog/2023/may/creating-a-calm-and-supportive-environment-for-y/