Harmony with Nature: Essential for Your Well-Being

Introduction

We often realize that the definition of health is different for people. Individuals have come to an understanding that being disease-free is not enough, but well-being is much more than that. Apart from the absence of disease, physical, mental, and social well-being, as well as an individual's capacity for environmental adaptation, are indicators of health. Another indicator of health is a shift in the direction of well-being or wellness. 

‍

We’re glued to our screens for hours on end, and while it’s been three years since the pandemic started, many of us are still struggling to get back on our feet. We may have less time and more pressure and we may feel the need to “be connected” 24/ 7. If that constant digital connection means we’re forced to sit at a desk all day long, it’s easy to feel stagnant or stuck.

‍

Being close to our inner consciousness, that is, practicing mindfulness exercises, engaging in physical exercises and movements, bringing about changes in our lifestyle habits, and engaging in social and community activities, along with all other vital aspects that bring about optimum health and well -being is nature, ir n any form -  animals, plants, trees, and water bodies can enhance our lives in many ways, which we will be discussing here!

‍

‍

Nature And Health And Wellbeing

The abundance of natural sights and sounds provides an escape from the increasingly frantic world of information technology. The rhythm of waves lapping in front of the shore, the crisp smell of autumn air, even these descriptions of nature will likely give you a feeling of calm in your mind. Aside from nature's poetic symbolism or stimulating effect on creativity, spending time in nature can have a significant and long-term impact on our health and wellbeing

‍

‍

In reality, there is rising scientific data that indicates to nature's beneficial effect on human health. According to the University of Washington research review published in 2019, engagement with nature is related to greater well-being and happiness. Nature exposure, in particular, has been linked to a sense of meaning and purpose, enhanced work management, and reduced mental anguish. 

‍

Metanalysis study has shown that when in natural outdoor situations, individuals experience a reduction in "rumination" - a maladaptive pattern of self-referential cognition that is connected with a heightened risk for mood swings and other mental diseases (Nejade et al., 2022). In the same study, it was suggested that individuals who hail from urban areas that contain more green space have a higher level of well-being.

‍

‍

How Does Nature Help Maintain Optimal Health?

Our unique ties to nature may be as diverse as nature itself. Whether you see the most tiny of ecosystems, such as ants working on a mossy wood, or feel little compared to massive mountain ranges, nature truly provides something for everyone. Nature's unlimited promise allows us to discover something new every time we visit.

‍

The National Library of Medicine suggested in one of their research that, when we spend all day in office spaces or front-of-screen areas, we can feel sensory overload, which causes tension and mental exhaustion. According to studies, being in nature allows our thoughts and bodies to relax. This boosts pleasure and improves concentration and attention.

‍

Being outside can also have a calming influence on our minds. Nature can offer mental relief by allowing us to escape daily life's stresses. It can also improve your creativity and problem-solving skills. For example, if you're having trouble writing a paper, go outdoors and get some fresh air. Take a stroll about your neighborhood or business, and you can discover the answers you're seeking.

‍

‍

Getting out in nature can make us want to walk, ride, trek, or kayak more frequently. When people are outdoors, they are more likely to engage in regular physical activity. Stepping outside might help you maintain a healthy weight by improving your activity levels.

‍

According to the National Library of Medicine, spending time in nature benefits our bodies by lowering cortisol levels, muscle tension, and demands on our cardiovascular systems. Spending time in nature may reduce the risk of heart disease. The outdoors can also help you improve your vitamin D levels, which are beneficial to your bones, blood cells, and immune system.

‍

‍

How To Connect With Nature

Our physical and mental health can be greatly enhanced by spending time in nature.

‍

Nature and Creativity 

Establishing a connection with nature can take many forms. Expressing your inner creativity while in nature is one approach to establishing a meaningful connection. This could be accomplished using the lens of a painting, a sketch, or a camera.

‍

Take some time to practice your creative photography skills by capturing images of the sky, water, trees, animals, and other natural features. You might even paint or draw stunning scenes of nature while relaxing in your own calm place. This relieves tension, lifts your mood and stimulates your imagination. Taking some time to reflect in the great outdoors may also help you see an issue or problem from a different angle.

‍

Find your spot

Finding a comfortable place to sit can you in your continued efforts to establish a stronger bond with the natural world. Choose a place to sit outside so you can take in the beauty of the surrounding area. This can be anywhere, parks, or a spot on your commute to work. It is easier to understand and pay attention to weather patterns, as well as the daily or monthly cycles of animals and plants when you have a regular spot to sit and spend time in the great outdoors. 

‍

‍

Run, Hike, Walk

Walking, running, or hiking all provide health and wellbeing benefits. While you enjoy nature, you can enhance your health by exercising. You can choose a different route or course in your area to explore nature in all of its glory. You could also gather with friends or family to enjoy an experience. 

‍

Picnic with your loved ones

What could be better than eating your favorite meal with friends and family in the park? Picnics are always a great way to connect with loved ones and nature. You might set aside time to visit your favorite park with your pals and make a list of nature-viewing activities to try out.

‍

Sunset and sunrise

This is one of my favorite things to do after a long day, watching the sunrise or sunset can bring calm and tranquillity. You could spend every morning watching the sunrise from your window. If you're feeling distressed after a long day, go for a walk to a park or a favorite hideout with a good view of the sunset and simply enjoy the gorgeous evening sky. 

‍

‍

Being by the water

There's something special about being near water or sitting and watching the waves flow across the sand. You may find the experience and opportunity to contemplate for a few seconds beneficial to your mental health while eliciting sentiments of happiness and tranquility. Being active in the water, whether it's a swim in nature or river rafting or just sitting by the beach, brings additional exercise benefits. Furthermore, these activities provide an excellent opportunity to get outside and enjoy everything nature has to offer. 

‍

Connect with plants

Bringing nature indoors and nurturing plants is one method to strengthen your connection to nature. The act of planting a seed, nurturing it, and watching it grow increases your respect for nature. You do not need to learn any difficult gardening skills. Simply pick up some seeds from a nearby nursery, plant them in soil or a plant pot, and water them every day.

‍

Enjoy the sunlight on your skin, feel the dirt in your hands, and breathe in the aroma of fertile soil as you care for your plant. Immerse yourself in every step and enjoy the process of cultivating your plants in your own backyard.

‍

Bird Watching

If you live near a park or area with dense trees, you should try bird watching. The experience can be both liberating and captivating. You may watch birds in their natural habitat by looking out your window or taking a walk through the park. You might notice how birds build nests during mating season or how a family of birds fights. Birdwatching strengthens your relationship with nature and allows you to appreciate more of the diversity that surrounds us and near home.

‍

‍

Conclusion

It's important to feel connected to the natural world even when confined to a desk; spending time in nature isn't the only factor to take into account. This feeling is referred to by several names by researchers, such as nature relatedness, connectivity to nature, and incorporation of nature in self. Several scales have been designed to measure this attribute. Whatever you choose to call it, spending time in nature appears to improve mental and emotional well-being.

‍

There are cognitive benefits as well as increases in mood, mental health, and emotional well-being associated with spending time in nature. Having a sense of connection to nature can have a similar positive impact on well-being regardless of the amount of time spent outside. Blue spaces, or aquatic environments, and green areas both contribute to well-being. The benefits of more secluded and biodiverse areas may be very great, but even parks and trees have their advantages.

‍

Take your well-being journey a step further with professional support from Rocket Health. Our online counseling services provide a convenient and accessible way to address mental health concerns. Connect with our experienced therapists from the comfort of your home and discover how integrating nature into your routine can enhance your mental and physical health. Start your path to better well-being with Rocket Health today.

‍

‍

‍

References

How does nature impact our wellbeing? (n.d.). Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing. https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/how-does-nature-impact-our-wellbeing 

‍

Nejade, R. M., Grace, D., & Bowman, L. R. (2022). What is the impact of nature on human health? A scoping review of the literature. Journal of Global Health, 12. https://doi.org/10.7189/jogh.12.04099 

‍

Our top tips on connecting with nature to improve your mental health. (n.d.). Mental Health Foundation. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/research/our-top-tips-connecting-nature-improve-your-mental-health 

‍

Phillips, T. B., Wells, N. M., Brown, A. H., Tralins, J. R., & Bonter, D. N. (2023). Nature and well‐being: The association of nature engagement and well‐being during the SARS‐Cov‐2 pandemic. People and Nature, 5(2), 607-620. https://doi.org/10.1002/pan3.10433 

‍

Yang, Y., Cai, H., Yang, Z., Zhao, X., Li, M., Han, R., & Chen, S. X. (2022). Why does nature enhance psychological well-being?a self-determination account. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 83, 101872. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2022.101872