After experiencing stress that led to me being physically ill, I began to focus on ways to manage and reduce stress in my life. I found that going for walks in nearby green spaces made me feel better. There’s a growing body of evidence that nature and stress relief go hand-in-hand.

In our increasingly busy and “on-screen” lives, stress management is something we should all be addressing. I share here how nature helps reduce stress and actions you can take to spend more time outdoors.

5 key ways that nature helps with stress relief

  1. It lowers cortisol levels: Natural environments provide a peaceful break from the constant stimuli of modern life, leading to a reduction in cortisol levels and overall stress.
  2. It improves your mood: Being outdoors increases serotonin production, which helps boost mood and creates a sense of well-being.
  3. It helps your brain: Nature walks enhance memory and attention. One study found that people who spent time in nature performed better on cognitive tasks than those who remained in urban settings. Other studies show that even 10 or 20 minutes can be beneficial.
  4. It releases “feel good” chemicals: Being outdoors whether walking, running, or cycling, helps release endorphins, promoting relaxation and better sleep.
  5. It helps you connect with others: Natural areas often serve as communal spaces, encouraging social interactions that can reduce feelings of isolation. Whether it’s an organised activity or just smiling at a passer-by, you are gaining a sense of connection with the world.

My love of nature and the clear mental and physical benefits of walking is why I offer coaching sessions outdoors. People find it refreshing to be in a different environment and away from their screen.  Being outside helps with focus and clarity. As a qualified coach, I help you transform your thinking and approach to problems. And if walking for an hour sounds too much for you, we can just sit outdoors – or combine the two.

If this has inspired you (which I hope it has!) here’s some suggestions to try.

5 simple ways to achieve stress relief in nature

  1. Visit local green space: Make it a habit to visit nearby parks or green areas. Even short, regular visits can have significant benefits for your mental health.
  2. Daily nature breaks: Integrate nature into your daily routine. This could be a morning walk, an afternoon jog, or simply sitting outside during your lunch break.
  3. Outdoor exercise: Opt for outdoor exercises, such as walking or yoga in the park, instead of indoor gym workouts.
  4. Gardening: If you have space, start a garden. Gardening allows you to connect with nature and can relieve stress. Or join a community gardening or growing scheme if there’s one near you.
  5. Mindfulness in nature: Practice outdoor mindfulness. Focusing on the natural sounds, sights, and smells should have a calming effect and improve mental clarity.

Incorporating these steps into your life will significantly reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. The next time you feel overwhelmed, fed up, or anxious, step outside and let nature work its magic. It’s free, has multiple benefits and is simple to do.

If you find your good intentions aren’t working then why not get in touch with me to see if coaching could help you manage stress.  A fresh perspective on what’s troubling you can unlock solutions to stress inducing problems in your life. I offer online sessions as well as outdoor ones so you can choose which suit you. See what previous clients say about working with me.

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Thanks for reading.

Brenda