by Sam Hillview-Close*
In our fast-paced, screen-saturated world, it’s easy to forget that we are, at our core, part of nature. And yet, something remarkable happens when we return to it - even briefly. The moment our shoes hit dirt instead of pavement, our shoulders drop, our breath deepens, and the mental chatter softens. It’s not just in our heads. Science backs up what our instincts already know: connecting with nature is profoundly good for our mental health.
1. Nature Calms the Nervous System
Ever notice how just sitting under a tree or looking out over the ocean feels like a sigh of relief? That’s your parasympathetic nervous system kicking in - your body’s natural way of shifting from “fight or flight” to “rest and digest.” Time in nature has been shown to lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and reduce blood pressure and heart rate. It’s the biological equivalent of a hug.
2. It Fights Off the Blues
Exposure to green spaces is linked to lower rates of depression and anxiety. In fact, some studies suggest that a daily walk in a park can be as effective for mild to moderate depression as some medications - without the side effects (unless you count muddy shoes).
Sunlight also boosts our vitamin D levels, which is crucial for mood regulation. Plus, being outdoors encourages physical movement, which we know improves mental health by releasing feel-good chemicals like endorphins and serotonin.
3. It Brings Us Into the Present
When we’re out in nature, we naturally become more mindful. A bird’s call, the smell of eucalyptus, the texture of bark - these sensory experiences gently pull us into the here and now. Nature has a way of quieting the mental noise and reconnecting us to what’s real and immediate, which can be especially helpful for those dealing with anxiety or overthinking.
4. Nature Encourages Perspective
Staring up at a vast sky or down into a canyon does something to your sense of self - in a good way. It reminds us that we’re part of something bigger, and that many of our problems, while real, are not the whole story. This feeling of “awe” has been shown to increase feelings of connection, gratitude, and resilience.
5. It’s Low-Tech, Low-Cost, and Always Available
One of the best things about nature is its accessibility. You don’t need expensive gear or a travel itinerary. A patch of grass, a balcony garden, or even a few minutes under a tree at lunch can offer benefits. The key is to be intentional - step outside, put the phone away, and let yourself just be for a moment.
Nature Doesn’t Judge – It Just Invites
You don’t have to be an “outdoorsy” person to benefit from nature. This isn’t about scaling cliffs or camping for days. It’s about noticing the small wild things - clouds shifting, leaves dancing, the smell of rain on warm concrete. In those moments, nature does what therapy often aims to do: it reminds us we are enough, just as we are, and that we belong.
So the next time life feels heavy, try stepping outside. Your mind - and your nervous system - will thank you.
* Sam Hillview-Close is a former business executive, public health administrator, Board member, writer and blogger. Sam is also a proud neurodivergent individual.
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