Nature and mental health: 5 benefits for the mind and soul that are waiting out there

In this fast-paced and connected world, where almost everything is just two clicks away, losing touch with nature is all too easy. Many of us spend most of our working days indoors, staring at screens for hours on end, with the only connection to nature being the background on our computers. And after a hard week at work, when one has battled with a barrage of tasks, stress and anxiety, there is often no energy left to do anything special. And so we sit at home, search for meaning in it all and let the weekend slip through our fingers so that the whole cycle of the working week can start all over again.

Ironically, the cure for all these feelings lies right out there. The fresh air, the soothing sounds of nature, the smell of the forest and the sight of the vast landscape can literally do wonders for our mental well-being.

Even though you may not feel like going anywhere and catching up on your sleep deficit seems like the best plan for the weekend, try to overcome this reluctance. There are several benefits waiting for you outside that can get you back on your feet, giving you extra energy, stamina and resilience to tackle the challenges ahead.
These are 5 science-validated mental health benefits offered by time spent in nature.

Reduces stress

Probably the most well-known benefit of time spent in nature is its ability to reduce stress. Multiple studies have confirmed that the natural environment promotes a sense of well-being and reduces the production of stress hormones such as cortisol. All those things that sort of naturally belong to nature, like running water, the rustling of leaves or the chirping of birds, have a miraculous, calming effect on our nervous system. And climbing the highest mountain isn't necessary; just a short walk in the woods or along the riverbank can do wonders for stress relief.

Improves mood and increases feelings of happiness

Nature can improve our mood and increase our sense of happiness. Exposure to natural sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, also known as the "feel-good" hormone, in our brains. That's why sunny days spent outdoors, regardless of the environment, always make you feel a little better.

Of course, there are other factors besides sunshine. The views, the tranquillity of the forest, the vastness of the rivers, seas and lakes. One feels so small at the sight of the grandeur of the mountains that even our problems suddenly don't seem so important.

Improves creativity and clears the mind

Nature is the best place to clear your mind and kick-start your creativity. The absence of city noise and distractions that lurk in the digital world literally every second finally allow our minds to relax and focus. Many writers, artists and great thinkers have usually sought and found their answers not in the streets of the city, but instead in the surroundings of nature, where they took advantage of its serenity and were inspired by its beauty.

Whether you're looking for a solution to a problem or just want to rid your mind of excess thoughts, time in nature can help you do just that. And maybe, like many of the greats, you'll come home with an idea or thought that will change the world. If not the whole world, at least the world around you

Increases self-confidence and resilience

Mountain hiking naturally brings with it physical and mental challenges. Whether we're talking about conquering difficult terrain, high altitude or persevering in adverse conditions. All these challenges overcome lead to a sense of achievement and thus increased self-confidence, which naturally carries over into other areas of our lives.

In nature, we also learn to adapt, which is one of the key qualities for 21st-century humans. The only certainty in nature is change, and if we embrace this fact, we will become more resilient and cope with the challenges of everyday life with much greater ease.

It teaches us to live in the present

A lot of stress and anxiety is related to regrets about the past or fears about the future. However, in the outdoors, especially on challenging mountain trails, there is no room for such thoughts - when what you need to focus on is your every next step.

Nature is the best place if your mind is too weighed down by thoughts of what has been or what will be. Because all that really matters is the here and now.

Nature is not only a place to escape, but also the best resource when pursuing mental well-being. It reduces stress, improves mood, stimulates creativity, increases self-esteem and promotes mindfulness. That's reason enough to get outside at the earliest opportunity.

And it doesn't have to be anything strenuous. It can be a weeks-long trek, or it can be a daily walk in the park during your lunch break. You can spend half an hour looking at the stars before bed, you can extend your walk with your dog by 5-10 minutes.

It really only takes a little bit and the power of nature can literally do wonders for your mental health.