Catch Me Outside: Mental Wellness in the Great Outdoors
April Message of the Month
As the days stretch longer and the weather begins to warm, the month of April is a great time to step away from our homes and workspaces and reconnect with nature and with ourselves. Spending time outside with fresh air and sunlight is an uncomplicated but powerful tool for mental wellness.
Research shows that time outdoors can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and focus, support emotional regulation, and when done with others, it increases feelings of connection and belonging. There is also something about nature that gently forces us to be mindful - the rhythm of walking, the sounds of birds chirping, and the warmth of the sun. Using our senses can regulate our nervous system and help us be “in the moment” for a short time.
There is no “right” way to connect with nature. You don’t have to be training for a race, hiking miles up a mountain, or disconnecting from the rest of the world completely.
There is no need for it to be intense, expensive, or time-consuming.
It can look like sitting outside with your morning coffee or taking a short walk during your lunch break. It can mean noticing the trees, the sky, and the flowers and birds as you walk. It can even be standing in the grass in your bare feet feeling the ground beneath you. The goal is presence, not perfection.
For some, outdoor movement can mean engaging in an activity that sneaks in movement, like gardening or crafting. It feels more gentle while having a similar effect. Activities can also help connect you with others who are like-minded and seeking companionship. Walking with a friend, attending community events, or joining group activities are all methods of reducing isolation and building belonging.
Like all mental wellness strategies, getting outside works best when it’s realistic and attainable. Start small. Choose times that work with your daily schedule. Let it be part of your day or week that you enjoy and look forward to, not just something to check off a list.
If you get outside yet life still feels heavy, that’s ok. These strategies don’t replace professional help. Find a counselor who fits your personality and let your worries spill out to an empathetic ear. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, help is available. Call or text 988 or call the Virginia Warm Line at 866-400-6428.
In the meantime, catch us outside this April, taking small steps towards mental wellness, together.
