Healing Through Nature
Why Time Outdoors is the Self-Care Your Relationships Need
SELF GROWTH
6/1/2023
Inspirational quotes like “Life hurts, nature heals” may sound cliché, but they hold a deep truth. Stepping outside, breathing in fresh air, and immersing ourselves in natural landscapes can do wonders for our well-being. Whether I’m climbing, biking, or hiking, nature has become a sanctuary, one that has helped me find balance, clarity, and deeper connections with nature and friends.
Having spent most of my adult life in cities like New York and London, I never fully appreciated how nature can help our inner world until I started climbing. The moment my hands gripped the rock and my body moved in sync with the natural environment, I felt something shift within me, a sense of freedom and renewal that no crowded subway ride or bustling café could offer. Perhaps it’s the simplicity of nature, its raw beauty, or the reminder that life moves at its own pace. Whatever it is, I always return home feeling nourished, grounded, and reconnected, not just with myself, but with those around me.
How Nature Heals Us
Science has long supported the idea that time in nature has powerful psychological and emotional benefits. Here’s how spending time outdoors can help heal our souls and improve our relationships:
Reduces Stress and Anxiety - The constant noise, stimulation, and pressure of modern life can leave us feeling mentally drained. Studies show that being in natural settings lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), helping us feel calmer and more at ease. The more we reduce stress, the more present and engaged we can be in our relationships.
Boosts Emotional Well-Being - Exposure to nature increases serotonin and dopamine levels, the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals. This means a simple walk in the park or a weekend hike can elevate our mood, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and make us more emotionally available to our loved ones.
Improves Communication in Relationships - Have you ever noticed that conversations flow more easily when you’re walking side by side with someone rather than sitting face-to-face? Nature has a way of creating a relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for couples, friends, or family members to open up and communicate without distractions.
Creates Shared Experiences - Whether it’s taking a walk in the park, going on a hike, or watching the sunset together, spending time in nature fosters shared memories. These experiences strengthen bonds and remind us that life’s simplest moments are often the most fulfilling.
Fosters Teamwork and Trust - Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking require teamwork, communication, and mutual support. Facing challenges together, whether it's navigating a trail or encouraging each other to keep going, builds trust and strengthens the emotional connection between partners, friends, or family members
How to Spend More Time in Nature (Even If You Live in a City)
If you live in a bustling city, you might feel like nature is out of reach. But connecting with the outdoors doesn’t require a remote mountain or an expensive getaway. Here are a few ways to incorporate nature into your daily life, no matter where you are:
Start Your Day with Fresh Air - Instead of reaching for your phone first thing in the morning, step outside for a few minutes. Whether it’s a short walk around the block, sipping coffee on your balcony, or simply standing by an open window, fresh air can set a positive tone for the day.
Bring Nature to You - If getting outside isn’t always possible, create a calming natural space in your home. Add plants, open your windows for fresh air, or use nature sounds like ocean waves or birdsong to bring an outdoor feel indoors.
Make Outdoor Time a Weekly Ritual - Schedule at least one nature-based activity each week. It could be as simple as a weekend walk in a nearby park, a picnic, or a trip to the beach. Making it a regular habit will help you prioritize time in nature.
Take Your Work or Workouts Outside - If you work remotely, try taking a meeting or doing some reading in a nearby park. If you exercise indoors, swap one workout a week for an outdoor run, yoga in the park, or a simple stretching session in the sun.
Plan Nature Getaways - Even if you live in a busy city, plan occasional escapes to more natural settings. A weekend road trip, a day hike, or even a short visit to a botanical garden can provide the mental reset you need.
Reconnecting with Nature, Reconnecting with Yourself and Others
Spending time in nature isn’t just about admiring beautiful landscapes; it’s about slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and deepening the relationships that matter most. In a world that constantly demands more from us, nature reminds us that sometimes, the best thing we can do is simply be.
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in the cycle of stress, try stepping outside. Breathe in the fresh air, listen to the surrounding sounds, and allow nature to do what it does best, heal, restore, and remind you of what truly matters.
And if you need guidance in strengthening your relationship with yourself or your partner, I’m here to help. Reach out for a free consultation, and let’s start your journey toward deeper connection and emotional well-being.