Step Outside: Nature's Role in Your Wellness Journey

Mental Health: Connect with Nature

Why Connecting with Nature Boosts Mental Wellness 

• Calms your nervous system: Nature sounds, sights and textures lower stress and heart rate 
• Improves focus & creativity: Stepping outside resets your brains attention like a natural recharge 
• Grounds you in the present: Feeling the breeze or noticing a blooming flower pulls you into now – which eases anxiety about the past or future. 
• Enhances mood: Sunlight exposure helps regulate serotonin, the “feel-good” or “happy” neurotransmitter. 

Quick Nature Connection Exercise

• Find a spot where you feel comfortable – a garden, park, balcony or even nearby window. 
• Use your senses 
  • Look – Notice three (3) things – a cloud shape, a flower color, an animal 
  • Touch – If you can, gently touch a leaf, flower or grass 
  • Listen – Do you hear birds chirping, wind blowing or leaves rustling? 
• Breathe deeply 
  • Take three (3) slow, deep breathes. Inhale through your nose & exhale through your mouth.