The positive effects of nature on our mood
I still remember the time when I was working long hours and feeling really tired, so I would take my dogs for a walk in the woods or just to a nearby park. Whenever I finished, I always felt refreshed, full of energy, and a lot happier.
Research shows that being around trees and hearing birds singing together helps people feel better much more than just seeing trees or hearing birds alone. Even spending just 10 minutes in a park with lots of trees and listening to birds can clear your mind, boost your mood, and help you focus better.
Participation question:
How do you feel in your body after spending an hour outside?
Helpful Videos:
The mental health benefits of nature with Dr Julie Smith
Helpful Resources:
Trees and birdsong to improve mood
Beyond recovery, natural environments may strengthen well-being from a neutral baseline
Seeking Help
Mental stress can cause us not to be able to see the good things in life and lead to excessive rumination or worries, which can result in serious health problems. If you have serious, long-term problems with negative thinking and feeling depressed, see your doctor or talk to a therapist if they are related to any mental challenges.
Are you looking for a therapist? 7 Cups has online, certified therapists with a paid option. For more information on what happens in online therapy at 7 Cups, Read Lisa’s (a therapist and director of therapy) explanation
https://www.7cups.com/forum/therapy/General_2432/WeveLaunchedTalkTherapyon7Cups_319430/
To apply for 7 Cups online therapy, click on this link (must be logged into member account) https://www.7cups.com/online-therapy/?ob=1
I feel refreshed, especially when it’s a sunny day, kind of like I have more motivation to do something, even if it just means moving out of my chair.
@Lauren63
Just spending a little time in the sunlight can really improve how we feel.
@amiablePeace77
I feel calmer.
More appreciative.
Refreshed.
Energised.
Greatful.
More tired 💜
@Amanda84
Those are great benefits! Thanks for sharing that beautiful picture.
@amiablePeace77
guess i really blessed in that way as even in city i live in here in northern Michigan there be wildlife and trees all over the place right outside of my apartment across the road a park with fenced in elks and some type of small deer one downstate there even been bears in city limits lol so yep i kinda live in nature lots of birds and other animals see even from my setting area outside front door so even sitting outside here can really help at times
@stormieandpaws
It must be amazing to see all the animals in the wild! Just be sure to stay safe around the bears! 😉
@amiablePeace77
How do you feel in your body after spending an hour outside?
Layed back and calm. This is one thing I love doing, taking a good long walk in a nearby forested area. Especially if it has a river, stream or tributary running through it.
@QuietByNature
I hear youQuietByNature! . I used to enjoy walking in the woods and by the rivers all the time with my dogs because it was so calming.
@amiablePeace77 How do you feel in your body after spending an hour outside?
Sometimes just mowing the lawn s a treat because I get exercise and I get to be outside.
@soulsings
I find that cut grass smells very nice and somehow makes me feel good!
@amiablePeace77
thought i share a photo of the Tahquamenon Falls i did not take it but it was download on my computer i wanted to show everyone how amazing this one is many others but this one special to me due to it one of the last places i took my kids before losing parental rights how you see why i love this one
i been to this one many times fins it a peaceful place many trails and there a camp place too state camp grounds
@stormieandpaws
This is an amazing picture and a beautiful memory to have! Thank you for sharing.
@amiablePeace77
your welcome as a teen our youth group spent a weekend there too so many good memories of being their and at other waterfalls in Michigan too
@amiablePeace77
How do you feel in your body after spending an hour outside?
Omg I can’t describe in words how great I feel just spending a few minutes let alone an hour outside. It is very therapeutic! What a great benefit and it’s free!!
@akunknown
Great to hear!
Honestly, it completely shifts my energy. My muscles relax, my eyes feel less fatigued from screens, and I get this nice wave of calm and focus for the rest of the day.
@Sharing3312
Wonderful to hear that nature helps you so much to feel good!
@amiablePeace77 I always feel so much more relaxed and refreshed! My body and mind are less tense.
@amiablePeace77
Being outside is my best medicine-something I have to be able to do in order to feel whole.
@caringShoulder1357
I can very much relate to what you said. Nature is my best healer too.