Taking Care of Ourselves and the Planet

With everything going on in the world, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life. So often, we get so busy that we forget to take care of ourselves both mentally and physically, even though doing so can hurt our overall health. This Earth Day, take a minute to restore your connection to nature and take advantage of the benefits of nature on mental health and your overall well-being. Read on to discover the link between sustainability and mental health and discover a few tips that will help you improve your connection to Mother Earth so that you can live a more fulfilling life.

Sunset in the mexican beach

How Does Nature Affect Humans?

Since the beginning of time, humans have had a strong connection to nature, which is why it has such a meaningful impact on our state of mind. We’ve relied on it in almost every aspect of life, but as nations industrialize and cities become sprawling urban centers, our connection to nature has become more and more strained. Studies show that maintaining a strong connection to the natural beauty of our planet is extremely important as it helps us reduce stress, generate positive emotions, and improve our physical and mental wellbeing.

Emotions in paper sheets

What are the Benefits of Nature on Mental Health?

For centuries, scientists and doctors have made it their mission to figure out just how does nature affects humans. While the benefits are numerous, so are the ways in which you can improve your connection to Mother Earth. Whether you’re heading out on a leisurely stroll through the park or spending the weekend camping in the mountains, reinforcing your connection to the planet can have a profound effect on your mental health. The awe and sense of wonder at our natural surroundings alone can help fight off depression and boost levels of serotonin. In addition, time spent in the great outdoors can lower cortisol levels, boost the immune system, reduce anxiety, and make you feel better emotionally.

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People doing excercise

How Can I Form a Better Connection to Nature?

Forming a better connection to nature doesn’t have to mean making huge lifestyle changes. Sometimes, it can be as simple as waking up a half hour earlier to take a walk outside or taking your lunch outdoors. These relatively small gestures allow you to connect with the natural world in big ways. If you really want to improve your connection and take full advantage of the benefits of nature on mental health, set aside at least 20-30 minutes a day to practice grounding, an activity that involves walking barefoot on the grass, sand, or soil to establish a better connection to nature. Many believe that grounding will help you sleep better, reduce levels of stress, relieve chronic pain, and improve your overall mental state.

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A girl waking up

Self-Care Tips for Mental Health

In addition to improving your connection to nature, there are a plethora of other self care tips for mental health.

Boost your Social Connections - It is a known fact that humans are social beings. Keeping strong connections to friends, family, and even interacting with strangers is essential to a healthy state of mind.
Practice Mindful Eating Habits - Aim for a balanced diet that includes all the food groups and try to relax while you eat, which means not taking a working lunch or multi-tasking while you dine.
Meditate Often - Meditation doesn’t have to take forever, sometimes it can be as short as taking a few deep breaths. Regardless of how long you meditate, its practice is believed to help reduce stress and promote better focus.
Exercise Daily - Engaging in regular physical activity is both good for the mind and the body. Whether it’s a brisk walk or a vigorous cardio session, getting exercise can boost your mood, reduce stress, and help with focus.
Set Healthy Boundaries - Standing up for yourself and setting limits on what you’ll do for others is essential to finding mental stability. Don’t allow others to drain your energy and instead, set healthy boundaries that others have no choice but to respect.

By prioritizing self-care and making time to connect with nature, you’ll nurture both your mental and physical health. This Earth Day, make yourself a priority. Your mind, body, and spirit will thank you for it.

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