2021 MENTAL HEALTH TOOLKIT: The Subtle Healing Power of Nature

For National Outdoors Month, we want to remind you of the accessible healing power of nature.

Writing about the healing power of nature feels silly when we all know it heals. It’s a system we are a creature of, something we are inextricable from (although some technologies make it seem scary), and the OG provider of medicine for the body and soul.

In recent years, we’ve seen the rise of ‘ecotherapy’ or ‘nature therapy’, with programs ranging from animal-assisted therapy, adventure therapy, or conservation projects, but experiencing the healing power of nature is sometimes as simple as tuning in (and out) while outside.

Simple Practices to Experience the Healing Power of Nature

Buy a succulent, put some herbs in your window, start some raised beds, or join a community garden.

If you’re looking to tap into the healing power of nature, start by growing something (anything). Even if you’re not home often, don’t have space for a garden, or don’t have much time on your hands. There’s something for you.

You could start with a low-maintenance succulent or get some herb starts to keep in the window if you’re looking for something without too much commitment, or go the whole nine yards and really get your hands dirty with a full-on garden of your own.

As the OG healer, growing something, either from seed or simply nurturing it along its way, is helping you adopt a small habit that adds up to lifelong wellness.

Stop and listen to the birds and feel the healing power of nature.

I find when I’m having a stressful day or moment, it helps if I concentrate on the birds for a little while. Where are they coming from? Where are they going? Can I distinguish different bird calls? If they flutter by, I follow them with my eyes and try to think nothing, just observe.

(You don’t have to be “into” birds to do this; it’s about letting nature be a mindful distraction, easing anxiety and offering a dose of calm.)

Get yourself to a green space.

If you don’t have personal outdoor space or live in an urban area, get to a greenspace, also known as a park or outdoor area with vegetation. Sit with the trees, shrubs, or cacti and BREATHE. Bring a journal and go inward or engage in mindful observations of what’s around you.

Try sunrise therapy.

This is a widely accessible therapy that might help you see the light in yourself a little more. Take the initiative to wake up early and perhaps get yourself to a good spot to invest in a little alone time and self-care. Watch how slivers of sun illuminate the space around you, towns come alive, and flowers open; the birth of the day lends a hand to positive planning for the day ahead.

There are many ways that all of us – whether we live on a farm, in the ‘burbs, or in the middle of a city – can tune into the natural world around us. All it takes is a little innovation, effort, and curiosity to see how nature can impact you. Do a little experiment this week and see how you feel when you make space for a daily connection with Nature. We think you’ll be surprised by the results of your data.