The past couple of years has seen an exponential rise in work-related stress. Burnout is not just a buzzword but a real challenge that organizations and urban professionals face. While the workforce reels under the negative impacts of stress, battling anxiety and depression, organizations suffer in terms of productivity and growth. In the midst of an ongoing debate on possible interventions and solutions, are we ignoring the simple solutions right in front of our eyes? Sometimes, solutions to the most pressing problems are simple and accessible, right in front of our eyes, undisguised and unconcealed, yet we fail to take notice.
Let me explain. How do you feel when you step out of your air-conditioned cabins and embrace the warmth of the evening sun and soothing, gentle breeze? Refreshed and relieved? How does it feel when you go for a trek, swim, or even a walk in the park? Peaceful, serene, and happy? Well, Nature can do that to you. Whether you’re stressed, fatigued, or plain bored, nature has the power to improve your mood instantly. If nature can take us from blues to bliss, why not tap into the rejuvenating, restorative, and healing effects of nature? Let’s explore Five Ways to Find Happiness in Nature.
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Nature Nurtures:
If I ask you to imagine a place where you feel calm, relaxed, and happy, what would it be? In all likelihood, it would be a place in a natural setting. It’s to do with the biophilia hypothesis – the innate inclination to be closely connected to nature or the love of life and all things living. Now you understand why your favorite sit spot at home overlooks the greenery outdoors.
Everything we see, hear, feel, and experience in our day-to-day lives affects our mental and physical well-being. Chronic stress and anxiety release cortisol and adrenaline responsible for elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate. The reverse is true as well. A calm and soothing outdoor stroll triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, the happy hormones. Research reveals that you can find happiness in nature by spending as little as 120 minutes/week outdoors. Even 10-minute microbreaks during the workday can work wonders and help us better deal with life’s stressors. Because regularly connecting with nature is proven to improve productivity, enhance sleep quality, boost creativity and learning, decrease stress and promote recovery after a period of illness.
Even corporates worldwide understand the importance and benefits of connecting with nature and arrange for outdoor team-building activities. But at an individual level, we must take ownership of our happiness, forming routines that involve ways to find happiness in nature. Let’s explore how.
Five Ways to Find Happiness in Nature-Science-backed
1-Earthing/Grounding: A science-backed practice, walking barefoot is excellent for restoring natural gait and foot mechanics. Additionally, connecting with the earth’s energy by walking or lying down on the soil, grass, or sand has various health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, improved sleep, and increased antioxidants, healing us inside out. So, find time to kick off those shoes and experience the healing energies of Mother Earth.
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2-Wake up with Nature: Following nature’s cues and tuning your body to the circadian rhythm has its advantages. Add a mindful meditation outdoors, and it’s the perfect start to a beautiful day.
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3-Outdoor Hobbies: Embracing an outdoor hobby may be the easiest way to find happiness in nature. Hobbies such as gardening, photography, bird watching, and fishing will take you closer to nature.
4-Bring Nature Indoors: If you don’t have the luxury of living in the lap of nature and live in an urban concrete jungle, it’s time to bring the outdoors in! More and more people are adopting the biophilic design approach that brings nature indoors, creating harmonious spaces through natural lighting, ventilation, herb gardens, indoor flora, or using natural elements in construction.
5-Green Exercise: Physical activity is essential for healthy living. But the benefits double up when done outdoors, delivering physical, psychological, and spiritual rewards. Hiking, swimming, cycling, running, water sports, or a brisk walk, the options are many. Ready to take your fitness outdoors?
Connect with all your senses…
Whether you need a creative boost, want to uplift your mood, alleviate work stress, sleep better or disengage and give your brain a timeout, nature works wonders for your body, mind and soul.
Slow down, take time to see the magnificence of nature, hear the sounds, smell the scents, feel the textures, and experience the magic.
There’s a whole world outside your cubicle, waiting to be explored. When you make it a habit to spend time outdoors, engaging with the healing energies of nature, you will witness a boost in your overall well-being and a stronger connection with your inner intuitive self.
Ready to break free from your stressful routine and harness the power of nature? As a Happiness Coach, I give you actionable nuggets to unlock a happy and fulfilling life. It is for you to reflect and incorporate them into your daily routines, one habit at a time.