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Two questions I often ask my clients during our first session, as we’re getting to know each other, are: “What type of movement are you incorporating into your daily routine?” and “How do you connect with nature?”
These questions are really important to me because I’m passionate about the natural healing power of both movement and spending time in nature. Most of us already know that movement is great for our physical and mental health, but when we combine movement with nature, the benefits can be even more powerful.
For example, walking in nature has been shown to reduce cortisol, which is often called the “stress hormone.” When we spend time walking outdoors, our parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest” system, gets activated. This helps counteract stress by promoting relaxation and allowing the body to begin its natural repair processes.
Spending time in nature can also create a greater sense of belonging and connection to the world around us. Research from the American Psychological Association suggests that this sense of connection can increase overall happiness, relieve stress, and boosts longevity.
Nature is also a sensory-rich environment. According to the Mayo Clinic Press, it helps us feel more present instead of overstimulated. This can support mindfulness by allowing us to focus on what’s around us rather than getting stuck in repetitive unhelpful or stressful thoughts.
Sunlight in nature stimulates the production of serotonin “the feel good hormone” and dopamine in your brain. These are neurotransmitters that promote emotional stability, calmness, and focus. Sunlight in nature and movement provide a natural way to boost your mood and increase your energy.
When we take the time to step away from screens and indoor stimulation, nature can give our brains a chance to recover from “mental fatigue.” Psychologists sometimes call this soft fascination—the gentle engagement we feel when watching clouds float across the light blue sky on a clear day or trees dancing in the wind. These simple, yet impactful moments give our minds a reset- this in turn can lead to a decrease in anxiety and stress.
As we welcome Spring, let’s also welcome the opportunity to benefit from all the nature is gifting us with in this season: longer daylight hours, blooming flowers, greener landscapes, and warmer weather— a chance to improve our overall well-being. These are just a few ideas:
- Grab a blanket and stretch for 15 minutes in your backyard
- Call and friend and explore a new nature trail together
- Go for a hike at one of the many local nature preserves
- Take your dog for a walk at the local park ( my dog's Neo's favorite)
- Plant a vegetable garden in the yard.
If you would like to learn more about Walk and Talk therapy sessions with me, feel free to reach out—I would love to support you in incorporating movement and nature into your healing process.
