14
Do I …?
Get outdoors into nature
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How can this help? Being in nature makes us feel better. Hundreds of studies have found that being outside in nature, or just viewing it, is good for us physically, socially and mentally. It stimulates a great array of positive effects on our bodies, brains, nervous systems, emotions, feelings, thinking, creativity, health, generosity and our interactions with others. It even helps to build resilience and open us up to new experiences.
Considering your responses Consider whether your responses are telling you that you could either get out into nature more, or absorb it more when outside. It is worth building some time in nature into your daily routine, to help reduce or avoid stress, but also to reap its wider benefits.
1. Do I spend much time outdoors? Yes
No
2. When I am walking or running, do I take notice of the natural world I pass? Yes
No
3. Do I take breaks outdoors daily? Yes
No
4. When outdoors, do I absorb what is beautiful or pleasant around me, such as the colours, the clouds, the feel of the breeze? Yes
No
5. Do I appreciate nature enough? Yes
No
To do. I will … See also
Find the local beauty spots Investigate the parks, ponds and areas with good views of trees and other plants. Find the roads with the best trees to look at. Take a short walk, or a longer one, there during a break or at the weekend.
Stand and stare When outdoors, don’t race through. Take a moment to pause and look. Notice what there is to see. Watch how the scene changes before you when the wind or the light alters.
Spend a few minutes in nature at least once a day Feel it! Hear it! Smell it! Let yourself experience the elements – the sun, wind, snow, even the rain! Notice how it feels on your skin. Take in the various scents. Listen to small sounds that you might not otherwise hear.
Join a group Check out groups organised by your college or the local community for enjoying, or even clearing up, the local environment. It is a great way of contributing, as well as meeting people, building confidence and feeling better.
Ways 15, 21, 24, 29, 32
30 50 Ways to Manage Stress
Get outdoors into nature 31