Take A Breath: How The Body Responds to Time Spent in Nature By: Paul Hewitt, RP (Qualifying)

When was the last time you went for a walk through the forest, the fields, the trails, with no motive other than to spend time with yourself and the natural world? Do you recall how you felt during this experience?

Just as the natural world and our personal wellness are interconnected, so too are mental and physical health. As such, one of the simplest and most accessible ways we can serve both the mind and body is through time spent in nature. However, this may require a certain level of reconsideration around how we engage with and approach the natural world. You do not necessarily need to suddenly begin going on hours long hikes to be able to reap the physiological benefits of the natural environment. Studies have shown that even 15 to 30 minute walks in nature can have restorative and protective effects on both physical and mental health. 

Per Harvard University Medical School, time spent in nature exposes the body to phytoncides produced by trees and plants which are positively correlated with heightened immunity, microbial resistance, as well as lowered cortisol (stress hormone). Given the invisibility of this process to the naked eye, it would be easy to overlook how the body responds to nature in this way. As such, I would challenge you to spend 15-30 minutes in nature in the coming weeks, paying attention to your breath, your body, your thoughts, and overall experience. 

Is spending time in nature something that you are already doing? Try adding a body scan where you focus your thoughts on each individual region of your body, paying attention to how you are carrying yourself. How does my body feel right now? What is changing and what is staying consistent for me? What is my body telling me it needs right now? These questions can help to foster embodied awareness, which is foundational to one’s physical health and emotional well-being.

For further information, feel free to read the following article on ecotherapy and ‘forest bathing’: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-forest-therapy-enhance-health-and-well-being-2020052919948