Grounding in Nature: How Our Scenery Affects Our Physical and Mental Health
It’s no secret that taking time to get outside and enjoy nature can improve our overall mental and physical well-being. Spending time in green spaces and connecting with nature has been linked to improved physical health, better mental health, decreased stress levels, and increased happiness. We wanted to take the time to share some specific grounding exercises that can be done to maximize these benefits.
Grounding exercises are activities that help us connect more deeply with the earth. They involve engaging all the senses to become more aware of our physical environment and ultimately become more present in the moment. The act of grounding can be done in any environment, although it’s most effective in natural settings such as forests, parks, or beaches.
One of the most simple and effective grounding exercises is to simply sit or stand in a comfortable position, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Notice the air going in and out of your lungs and the sensation of your feet firmly planted on the ground. This will help you to bring your awareness to the present moment. If you’re outdoors, you can also use your other senses to further connect with nature. Listen to the sounds of birds chirping, running water, or the wind rustling through leaves. Smell the scent of flowers, freshly cut grass, or saltwater. Feel the texture of the grass, dirt, or sand beneath your feet. Taste the fresh air or a cool drink of water. By taking in all of these sensory inputs, you can become even more deeply connected with your environment.
The benefits of grounding in nature are numerous. Studies have found that even just a few minutes of being in green spaces can...
Reduce stress levels
Improve concentration
Boost mood
Additionally, exposure to natural scenery has been linked to improved physical health, such as lower blood pressure and improved cardiovascular health. Making time for grounding takes intention, find moments in your day you could use five to ten minutes to do this exercise and it will become easier over time. There are a few times throughout your day that may make it more manageable to incorporate, such as first thing in the morning, on a lunch break, or just after work. Right when you wake up in the morning exposing yourself to sunlight has several benefits including helping the natural production of melatonin and making it easier for your body to wake up. Nathaniel Mead of the Environmental Health Perspectives explains that “The melatonin rhythm phase advancement caused by exposure to bright morning light has been effective against insomnia, premenstrual syndrome, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD)” (2008).
Overall, grounding in nature is a great way to reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance physical wellbeing. It’s a simple practice that anyone can do and can be done in any outdoor setting. All you need to do is take a few moments to focus on your breath, engage your senses, and take in the beauty of nature. In doing so, you’ll find that you are able to reconnect with yourself and the environment around you.
If you’re looking for additional support, book a consultation with a therapist.