Health & Well-Being

How Can Nature Improve Your Mental Health?

This year, Mental Health Awareness Week takes place between the 10th and 16th of May and the theme is nature. After being locked indoors for the best part of a year, getting outdoors and appreciating nature sounds lovely.  However, while there has been countless studies and research done into the subject, many people don’t seem to realise how beneficial nature can be for mental health.  

Nature is an excellent mental health resource.

Getting outside and connecting with nature can be an enriching experience. After being trapped inside for the last year, we can finally get outside and enjoy the fresh air – in alignment with government rules, of course. Nature can lift our mood, make us feel less stressed, and can help us overcome stress. Regardless of where you live, simply getting outside to your local park, visiting the seafront, or merely sitting in your garden on a beautiful summer’s evening can have a significant influence on your mental wellbeing. 

Inspiration

For Mental Health Awareness week, want to inspire our members to get out and enjoy nature as much as possible. The team at Discounts for Carers have shared some of their favourite nature-inspired activities that help their mental health.

“For me, I love going for a walk. I grab my headphones and just walk.” – Amy.
“Visiting the sea is my favourite nature-inspired activity. I love getting wrapped up, taking a hot drink, and watching the waves.” – Sue.
“I like to sit in my garden with a coffee on the weekends. It’s a small thing to do, but it makes my entire day.” – Jack.

We all need some inspiration from time to time, and thankfully, we have got you covered. We have listed a handful of outdoor-related activities you can try out!

  • Take a walk in an outdoor area or green space, like a park.
  • Eat meals outdoors. Have a picnic with your friends; they are perfect this time of year!
  • Try and exercise outside. It can help boost your mood and keep you motivated!
  • Take the dog (or cat) for a walk outside.
  • Plant and grow food in your garden.
  • Help the environment – go litter picking, volunteer for a conservation product, or plant helpful seeds. 
  • Connect with animals – visit a local farm or try and watch wildlife.
  • Buy houseplants.
  • Water your houseplants.

How To Get Involved 

Donate

With the rise in mental health struggles thanks to the pandemic, now more than ever, we need to support and discuss mental health resources. Thankfully, MIND has been a trailblazer when it comes to mental health support, learning and advice. By supporting MIND, you can help continue the fight for mental health and support those who are in need. Click here to donate to MIND. 

Share your experience 

Now it’s your turn! We want to hear from you, our member. We want to know how nature has supported your mental health. Whether you love going for a walk, sitting in a park, or taking care of your house plants, we want to know! Head on over to our social media or leave a comment below and let us know your tips, tricks, or simply let us know what you do to ensure your mental health is prioritised. We want to share on our social media our member’s advice and support!

Make sure you use the hashtags #MHAW and #FightForMH to join the conversation.

For more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, please visit the Mental Health Foundation or MIND.

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