Nature is the purest portal to inner peace, where flowers bloom and so does hope. The poetry of Earth – nature rejuvenates our deepest core and gives the perfect break we need from a hustling life. As our body is formed by a combination of the five great elements – earth, water, fire, air and space therefore, being around greenery reduces stress and improves mental health. In fact, studies show that what we see, hear, and experience in our environment changes not only our mood but also how our nervous systems work as well.

So, let’s explore in detail how spending time in nature has numerous benefits for improving mental health:

1.  Minimum Noise, Deep Meditation: Meditation is a proven technique to calm our senses. When we meditate amidst the beauty of nature, we feel the tranquillity and silence of the natural world. For centuries, meditators have discovered the human potential to awaken in the temple of nature. And that’s true! Nature’s peace flows into us as sunshine flows into trees. Winds embrace us with freshness and fuel up our positive energies.
2. Natural Sounds, Anxiety Gone: Nature gives us a perfect break from the stresses of modern life. It brings an escape to our daily grind. The humming voice of birds helps us provoke relaxation. We feel positive emotions when we hear them. The sounds are super comforting and euphoric. Birds chirping around you is a beautiful realisation that life is incredibly good. So, don’t hesitate to make this amusing sound a part of your daily routine.
3. Promotes Social Connection: A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Health Research found that spending time in nature helps promote social connection. Participating in nature-based activities, such as outdoor yoga classes or aerobics reduces the feeling of loneliness and relieves painful emotions like – fear, worry and sadness. So, never leave a chance to have a lovely chat and a laugh, make new friends, improving your well-being in a beautiful setting.
4. Teaches us to Live in the Present: Nature is always present. When we observe nature, we learn to be more mindful and present in our own lives. For example, if we watch a sunrise or sunset or the innocence of animals, with no deception and no lies, our moods get uplifted. So, wisdom is to spend time in nature and appreciate its beauty and wonder, which ultimately helps improve our mental health.
5. We Learn to Let Go: Despite the destruction and devastation caused by the flames, life eventually returns to the area. New plant growth emerges, and animals return to the area to resume their lives. This process shows that even in the face of great adversity and destruction, there can be renewal and new beginnings.

Another example is the way that water flows in a river. Water is constantly moving and changing, and it does not hold onto any grudges or resentment. It simply flows past obstacles and continues on its journey. This can remind us that forgiveness is about letting go of negative feelings and moving forward with a sense of peace and acceptance. Research has shown that forgiveness is linked to mental health outcomes such as reduced anxiety and depression.

So, the next time when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider taking a break and immersing yourself in nature to experience its rejuvenating effects on your mind and body.