Nature provides us with many healing properties including natural light from the sun, green spaces such as parks, and blue spaces such as bodies of water; all of which have been proven to have positive effects on our mental health.
Spending time regularly in nature can promote good mental health by helping our minds to relax and rejuvenate. Furthermore, research shows that regular exposure to nature has been linked to a host of other mental health benefits. Here are a few:
- Improved cognitive function
- Improved focus
- Improved memory
- Increased creativity
- Decreased stress
- Decreased anxiety symptoms
- Decreased feelings of loneliness
- Reduced depression symptoms
We must connect regularly with nature to reap its benefits. We can nurture our connection by partaking in activities such as hiking, going to the beach, or camping.
For those who are unable to plan getaways or excursions, getting access to nature does not always need to include extensive planning or activities. We can also enjoy nature in urban or small spaces, and in a few minutes each day by:
- Going to a park
- Tending to a plant or garden at home
- Spending time in our backyards
- Looking outside our windows at trees and plants
- Placing a plant in our workspaces
- Sitting by a pond
- Listening to nature sounds, such as raindrops or the ocean
Maintaining good mental health is crucial for our overall well-being. This can be accomplished by incorporating time in nature into our daily routines, and, most importantly, seeking the care and support we need when we experience symptoms of a mental health condition.
If you need the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575, to schedule an appointment.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.