5 ways to increase mood by using nature

In today's fast-paced and stressful world, many people struggle with maintaining a positive mood. The constant demands of work, relationships, and everyday responsibilities can take a toll on our mental well-being. In this article we'll highlight the benefits of using nature for mood.

Table of Contents:

• Role of nature

• 1. Walk in the park

• 2. Forest bathing

• 3. Gardening therapy

• 4. Meditate outdoors

• 5. Get sunlight

• Summary

Nature holds the key to restoring balance in our lives. By embracing the power of nature, we can boost our mood and reduce stress naturally. Here are five proven ways to harness the healing properties of nature:

1. Take a walk in the park: Spending time in green spaces has been linked to improved mood and reduced stress levels. Research shows that exposure to nature stimulates feelings of calmness and relaxation.
   

2. Practice forest bathing: The Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, involves immersing yourself in nature by mindfully experiencing the sights, smells, and sounds of a forest. Studies have shown that forest bathing can lower cortisol levels and boost overall well-being.
   

3. Gardening therapy: Engaging in gardening activities has been found to have numerous therapeutic benefits. It promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and improves mood by connecting us with the natural world.
   

4. Meditate outdoors: Combining the benefits of meditation with exposure to nature amplifies its positive effects. Find a peaceful spot outdoors, close your eyes, and focus on your breath while immersing yourself in the sounds and sensations of nature.
   

5. Get sunlight: The above tools are indirectly related to sunlight exposure. Sunlight has been proven to increase releases of serotonin levels in the brain. This is a chemical related to boosting mood and helping us feel more calm and focused. Usually in the early hours of the day when one wakes up can increase alertness while also helping in releasing melatoning in the evening which helps us sleep better, which ultimately affects our mood.
   

Summary

Our connection to nature goes beyond personal well-being; it is also essential for the health of our planet. By preserving nature, we play an important role in maintaining a sustainable ecosystem and protecting biodiversity. The consequences of losing natural habitats are substantial, affecting not only countless species but also our own existence as humans. Choosing an eco friendly life and sustainable life style, not only helps our planet, but clearly shows benefits such as mood, and many others.

Sources:

1. Green Space and Stress: Evidence from Cortisol Measures in Deprived Urban Communities" - Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24002726/

2. "Forest Bathing and Its Effect on Cortisol Levels" - Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine - https://environhealthprevmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1007/s12199-009-0086-9

3. "Therapeutic Benefits of Gardening Activities: A Systematic Review" - Complementary Therapies in Medicine - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6334070/

4. "The Effects of Mindfulness Meditation in Nature on Self-Reported Well-Being" - Journal of Happiness Studies - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226691610_Self-Reported_Mindfulness_Mediates_the_Relation_Between_Meditation_Experience_and_Psychological_Well-Being

5. "Biodiversity Loss Threatens Human Well-Being" - PLOS Biology - https://journals.plos.org/plosbiology/article?id=10.1371/journal.pbio.0040277

6. Pathwayshealth.org - https://pathwayshealth.org/hospice-topics/sunlight-can-lift-your-mood-but-exercise-caution/