Benefits of Nature Therapy
Improve your Mental health by using one of the easiest resources available - nature! Plus it’s free!
There are numerous benefits to spending time in nature, both for physical and mental health. Some of the key benefits of being in nature include:
Reduced stress and anxiety: Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can help to reduce stress and anxiety. The sound of birds singing, the sight of green trees and grass, and the smell of fresh air can all help to soothe the mind and promote relaxation.
Improved mood: Being in nature has been shown to boost mood and increase feelings of happiness. Exposure to sunlight and fresh air can help to increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.
Better physical health: Spending time in nature can also have a positive impact on physical health. Walking or hiking in natural environments can help to improve cardiovascular health, increase strength and endurance, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
Increased creativity and cognitive function: Being in nature can also help to boost creativity and cognitive function. Studies have shown that exposure to natural environments can improve attention and focus, enhance problem-solving skills, and increase creativity.
Improved sleep: Exposure to natural light during the day and darkness at night can help to regulate the body's natural circadian rhythms, which can lead to better sleep. Additionally, the calming effect of nature can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can also contribute to better sleep quality.
Overall, spending time in nature can have a wide range of benefits for both physical and mental health and can be an effective way to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being.
Between March and May is the best time to see some beautiful blooms in Northern California. I recently went on a docent-led Nature hike by Friends of Edgewood and learned so much about all the flora and fauna native to California.
Here are a few that you are more than likely to see as you venture out. At first you might spot one or two but don’t be surprised if you happen upon a field of them - that’s the true “aha” moment.