Have you ever experienced feelings of depression, sadness, worry, grief, stress, or anxiety? If you are a human being living in this world, I know you’ve experienced these and many other negative feelings. It’s part of daily life, and as time passes by at incredible speeds, with people busier and busier with daily activities and projects, often surrounded by brick or cement jungles, it is only natural to experience these negative emotions and thoughts. We can live on the fast lane only for so long, before experiencing the negative effects of it all.
It is estimated that about 16.2 million adults in the United States have experienced depression. That’s a lot of people. As researchers look into these numbers, studies have been made on how to treat this problem. Medications and different behavior therapies have been explored, but perhaps one of my personal favorites are the benefits of nature on mental health. And sure enough, there is plenty of evidence to show that time spent in the great outdoors has a positive effect on our emotional well being. Just 50 minutes spent in a natural environment has tremendous benefits, according to a recent study. Decreased anxiety and rumination, increased memory and improved affect are just some of the many benefits of such a short time in nature.
I don’t need a study to know from experience that time in nature is beneficial. In fact, when I’m feeling stressed out, heading outdoors is my favorite therapy. The fresh air, the sky above, the sound of birds singing, and the trees and flowers in my neighbors’ yards, all have a positive effect on me. Of course, getting out of the city and immersing myself in the woods near a stream is the ultimate cure for stress and anxiety.
And that’s exactly where I went a few days ago. Packed a picnic and headed to the mountains. The day was beautiful. Cold, sunny, and no wind. It felt so fresh, and the perfume of winter filled the air. The sun rays played with the trees warming up my face. The river beside raced through the rocks playing the most beautiful music. I love the sound of water… Patches of snow graced the landscape, and with the cold temperatures, the river created on rocks and sticks the most intricate ice sculptures. Upon closer inspection of some of the rocks nearby, we found fossils of seashells, giving us the idea that once upon a time, the whole area was covered by sea water.
If you’re feeling the effects of this crazy life, if you’re feeling stressed, depressed, or sad, give nature a chance to help treat your heart and mind. Go for a walk around your neighborhood and focus on the natural world around you. Notice the sky, how blue it is. Wonder where the clouds came from and where they are headed to. Look at the grass growing and imagine the microscopic world that lives between each blade. And why is the grass so fresh even on hot summer days? If there’s snow, be in awe of each flake and how unique each one is, just like you are. Listen to the birds singing. If you have robins in the Winter where you live, listen how they laugh as you pass by.
The company was great, and as we explored the small path along the river, I could feel the stress and tension lift from my shoulders, and my mood improving. It was exactly what I was needing. And as much as I enjoy looking at the photos I took, I think next time I’ll leave the camera at home so I can completely focus on the experience.
If you can spend some moments in a completely natural environment, do so. Immerse in the beautiful world God has given you and experience its healing powers.
