7 Benefits of spending time in Nature

We are intrinsically connected to the natural world, whether we realize it or not. Nature is not separate from us—we are an extension of it; it is in us. When was the last time you contemplated some trees around you or paused to take a deep breath of fresh air? During our busy lives, we might often overlook the powerful connection we can have with nature.

However, spending time in nature—whether it's a nearby green space, forest trail, or local garden- can significantly boost your mental health and emotional well-being, offering a wide range of powerful health benefits.

“Studies have shown that regular exposure to green spaces promotes a more positive outlook, encourages healthier lifestyle choices, and supports overall emotional and physical well-being”.

Galatea Lakes, Alberta

From my own experience, I can tell that having an outdoorsy life and engaging in usual exercise and spiritual activities in nature have brought me a new perspective on life and made me enjoy the little aspects of it way more. Nature has helped me during anxious or stressful times, and it has been a very healthy habit to be outside and take it in as much as possible. I became aware of its benefits and how it positively impacts my well-being.

Let’s dig into 7 of the benefits of spending time in Nature:

Boosts Creativity and Relieves Mental Fatigue

Research states that spending time in green spaces—such as parks, forests, or gardens—can significantly enhance creativity by encouraging mind-wandering, daydreaming, and free thinking.

Natural environments serve as restorative spaces that offer a much-needed escape from the demands of daily life. This break from routine allows both the mind and body to recover from stress and mental fatigue.

When you relax in nature, your brain gets the opportunity to reset, making room for new ideas and fresh perspectives. Whether you're seeking inspiration, mental clarity, or a creative breakthrough, immersing yourself in nature can help unlock your full creative potential.

Decreases Anxiety and Stress

Nature has a naturally calming and soothing effect on the body, helping us feel more at ease while providing a much-needed escape from everyday stressors.

Spending time in green spaces—such as parks, forests, or gardens—can significantly reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels, the primary hormone associated with stress.

In addition, being exposed to green areas has been linked to increased production of endorphins and dopamine, the “feel-good” hormones responsible for enhancing mood and promoting a sense of happiness and joy. This is why eco-therapy, also known as forest therapy or forest bathing, has gained popularity for its mental health benefits. It can help lower heart rate, ease symptoms of PTSD, and boost overall life satisfaction.

By regularly engaging with nature with outdoorsy activities, you support your mental well-being and take proactive steps toward reducing anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing your quality of life.

Promotes Healthier Eating Habits

Research shows that a stronger connection to nature is closely linked to greater awareness of the quality and source of the food we eat. People who feel more connected to the natural world are more likely to make mindful, health-conscious food choices and develop a deeper appreciation for whole, plant-based foods and sustainable eating habits. This often leads to a higher intake of fruits and vegetables, greater dietary diversity, and a more positive relationship with food overall.

Nature connectedness not only supports physical health but also encourages long-term well-being through improved nutrition and lifestyle choices.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

Engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, walking, or jogging in natural environments offers powerful health benefits, especially for your heart.

Research shows that spending time in green spaces encourages regular physical activity, which helps lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular health, and support overall fitness.

Natural settings not only motivate people to move more but also play a key role in preventing obesity and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Whether it's a forest trail, park path, or coastal walk, being active outside is a simple and effective way to enhance your physical well-being and support long-term health.

Strengthens the Immune System Naturally

Spending time in natural environments has been shown to significantly boost immune function. Trees and plants emit phytoncides—natural organic compounds that have protective health benefits. Research indicates that exposure to phytoncides enhances the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which play a critical role in the body’s immune defense.

Regular time outdoors also helps the body adapt to different environmental conditions, promoting resilience and a stronger immune system. Whether you're walking through a forest, relaxing in a park, or simply enjoying fresh air, nature offers powerful support for immune health and overall well-being.

Improves the quality of Sleep

Nature can play a key role in regulating your circadian rhythm—the body’s internal clock that influences sleep-wake cycles. Exposure to natural daylight during the day helps reset this rhythm, while reduced exposure to artificial blue light in the evening supports healthier sleep patterns.

In addition, nature’s calming and stress-reducing effects help relax the body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Whether it’s a morning walk, an afternoon in the park, or an evening spent outdoors, connecting with nature is a natural and effective way to promote restful, restorative sleep.

Strengthen Social and Community connectedness

Our social environment plays a vital role in our overall health, and the way we connect with others significantly impacts our mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in outdoor group activities—such as gardening, hiking, or nature walks—encourages meaningful social interaction and builds a strong sense of community in a positive, health-focused setting.

These shared experiences in natural environments help reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation, while promoting positivity, emotional support, and a deeper sense of belonging. By combining the benefits of nature with social connection, outdoor group activities offer a powerful boost to both mental health and overall happiness.

At Mount Yamnuska's hike, in Kananaskis

What are practical and easy ways to incorporate nature into your daily life?

Daily Walks in Green Spaces

Even a 20-minute walk in a nearby park can have measurable benefits for your mental and physical health. Try to engage in at least 10000 steps per day walking outside and taking and observing the nature around you. You will see with time how aware you become of the noises and the green around you.

Gardening and Backyard Activities

Tending to a garden or creating a green space at home not only offers physical activity but also brings the therapeutic benefits of interacting with plants and learning about their care.

Weekend Nature Getaways

Plan short trips to nearby forests, mountains, or beaches to fully immerse yourself in natural surroundings. Hikes are amazing ways to take in nature while exercising, which has a great impact on overall well-being.

Nature Therapy Practices

Engage in practices like forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) or meditation in natural settings for deeper relaxation and mental clarity. It might sound a bit crazy, but hugging trees is also a wonderful way to release your negativity and energy and take in the good energy from the tree. When camping during summer, I always make sure to take some time alone and go for a walk shoeless, feeling the ground and taking in nature’s energy.

Summing up! In today’s fast-paced, technology-centered lifestyle, many of us can feel increasingly disconnected from nature. However, nature is within us as we are a part of it. It has long been recognized for its healing and restorative effects on the body, mind, and spirit. By incorporating regular time in natural environments into your daily routine, you can significantly improve your quality of life and realize how connected we are to them, even though we might not realize it. This connection helps you feel more grounded, rejuvenated, and inspired. It is more than just a recreational activity—it’s a natural remedy for modern stress. Whether it's forest bathing, beach walking, or mindful time outdoors, embracing nature is a proven way to restore balance and boost your health naturally.

Let’s try to embrace nature and include it in our everyday life, making it our ally and using its potential great benefits that it could have for us!

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References

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Langlois, M., & Chandon, P. (2024). Experiencing nature leads to healthier food choices. Communications Psychology, 2(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s44271-024-00072-x 

Li, Q. (2009). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, 15(1), 9–17. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-008-0068-3 

Stangierska, D., Fornal-Pieniak, B., Szumigała, P., Widera, K., Żarska, B., & Szumigała, K. (2023). Green Physical Activity Indicator: Health, physical activity and spending time outdoors related to residents' preference for greenery. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(2), 1242. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20021242

 Yeh, C., Hung, S., & Chang, C. (2022). The influence of natural environments on creativity. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 13. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2022.895213

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