A group of people using outdoor trails to relieve stress.

Why It's Important To Engage With Nature

April 18, 2022 Jilana Thomas

As Earth Day 2022 and Grounded’s 2nd Anniversary approaches, we’re taking time to emphasize why nature is the powerhouse behind what we do. Through the force of nature, we are provided healing, sanctuary, food, water, and even improvements to our mental health.

Green spaces such as parks, forests, gardens, and wetlands all offer us immense benefits simply by spending time being present and engaged in a serene setting. Whether amongst the beauty of wild greenery or an indoor jungle, engaging with nature helps us stay grounded.

WHAT NATURE DOES FOR US

Many of us live overstimulated lives, juggling responsibilities, technology use, relationships, and more. As stress levels rise under limited time and resources, wellness can feel inaccessible and low-priority. No matter how well-functioning one might be, living a high-stress life leads to a multitude of health issues.

In contrast, studies have shown that spending time in green spaces boosts our serotonin, lowers stress levels, and improves our cognitive abilities. Thus, exposure to nature supports our mental + emotional well-being and provides us with a means of escape. This means we can award ourselves a mental break by sitting at a park, going for a hike, and even handling soil. In return, we notice lesser symptoms of anxiety, better performance on attentive tasks, and feelings of pleasure.

We’re also lucky enough to experience these same benefits through the houseplants we bring into our spaces. In fact, over 60% of our long-term customers have reported improved mindfulness and mood boost, thanks to the greenery in their homes. Simply being exposed to the elements of nature gives us space to mentally exhale, be present, and reset.

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF NATURE

Building a meaningful connection to nature activates mindfulness and encourages us to appreciate the present moment. One method for harnessing nature’s therapeutic qualities is to engage in nature using your senses - no matter where you’re at or what green space you may have access to.

Some examples of connecting in this way are:

Listening to the sound of birds
Taking in the smell of flowers or rain
Touching grass or dirt
Watching clouds or the smooth motion of water
Inhaling fresh air

Allowing ourselves to be present in nature builds the practice of gratitude and mindfulness. Not to mention that it reminds us we are a part of an ecosystem, existing among other life forms and forces. Through nature, we’re offered the gift of wellness and an opportunity to purely disconnect + decompress.

WAYS TO SPEND TIME IN NATURE

As accessible as nature should be, not all areas have an abundance of it. Here’s a list of creative ways to spend time in nature this Earth Week and always: