With the fall season being in full season and the weather starting to get a bit chillier, I’m often encouraging clients to prioritize “touching grass” in order to help manage mood problems. While it may be annoying to have to get on all of your gear to get outside, research widely supports that being in nature is associated with better mental health outcomes.
For example, just 20-30 minutes of being outdoors can be statistically effective in reducing stress. There are also additional benefits such as improved sleep, improvement to concentration and attention and reduced social isolation.
Benefits seem to outweigh the cons of having to put on a coat, shoes, etc. I also personally find that being in nature can offer opportunities to practice gratitude, presence and to just take a big, deep breath. Engage in your senses, go on a colour walk, and maybe hug a tree this fall.
