3 Ways Getting Out In Nature Changes Our Lives

In honour of Canada Day, I was inspired to write about the beautiful backyard our country has to offer and the impact it has on our lives.

Anyone who knows my boyfriend Daniel and I, is well aware that we are very enthusiastic, amateur hikers. We love getting out and going on whirlwind adventures, but more times than not, we are very unprepared and left humbled by the elements.

Our most recent trip was a couple days ago, we went to hike Panorama Ridge for our five-year anniversary. We were expecting scorching hot weather, but the mountains had other things planned. The next thing we knew, I was wearing Daniel’s t-shirt to keep warm, leaving him in swim shorts as we fell through glacier snow and rock climbed our way to the summit. We were laughing the whole way, loving every minute. That’s because nature brings us to a new level, it makes us push forward, gain perspective and find connection.

Now I’m not suggesting that everyone go out unprepared and have their lips turn blue at the top of a mountain to get this experience, but I am encouraging us to get in touch with our innate desire to experience adventure.

We find a true sense of joy and happiness when we go out for a hike, a swim in the lake, or spend a day in the garden. We feel connected and part of something bigger than ourselves. It taps into our intrinsic desires for exploration, adventure, connection and belonging.

Getting out in nature can truly impact us in ways that shape who we are and how we live our lives. I want to share the ways it can create a better life.

1.  It helps our body heal and reduce stress.

There have been numerous studies in hospitals, offices, prisons, space stations and schools, showing that having just a plain plant in the room, a view of nature, or plainly just looking at scenic photos can have a significant impact on stress, anxiety and recovery. Studies written about in the Oxford Journals, show the impact of a natural view on patients recovering from surgery. They found that these patients recovered faster, spent less time in hospital, had better evaluations, required fewer painkillers and had less postoperative complications compared with those that viewed an urban scene. Being in contact with nature can improve our body’s ability to handle stress and heal, along with providing an influx of energy.

2.  It calms our mind, improves our mood and increases our attention.

There are been many studies showing the impact nature can have on our brain’s ability to function at a high level. Nature can help take us from a stressed and anxious mindset to a more calm and balanced frame of mind.

There is a reason why lots of stress apps and sleeping programs involve the sound of wind, ocean, waterfalls and birds. The sounds and sight of nature calms and soothes our brain. A study displayed by the University of Minnesota, showed 95% people who got out in nature experienced having improved psychological wellbeing, feelings of pleasure, positive mood, meaningfulness and vitality.

There have also been numerous studies supporting the impact nature has on increased attention and focus. It has been shown nature’s unique qualities teach our brain to naturally focus and help our overactive minds rejuvenate. Another study mentioned by the University of Minnesota, shows improved attention span in children in ADHD after spending time in nature. Experiencing nature can help our minds increase performance and happiness.

3.  It helps us feel part of something bigger than ourselves. We feel more connected to each other and the world.

Being in contact with nature helps create better appreciation and respect for our world. It enables people to become more aware of how dependent we are on the earth’s natural resources for our material needs, and it promote a more sustainable and green way of living.

Getting in touch with nature creates a deeper connection in our lives, our relationships and the world around us. Studies mentioned by the University of Minnesota, show people who spend time in nature experience stronger feelings of community, unity and safety. The areas of the brain associated with empathy and love light up when shown images of nature, compared to images of urban scenes that activate fear and anxiety. Being in nature truly makes us feel and act happier, connects us with our surroundings, and inspires us to live a more positive and sustainable lifestyle.

Lots of the research and studies show the many benefits from viewing nature, not to mention being in nature. Getting out and experiencing nature will help increase happiness, satisfaction, healing, connection, and belonging in your life.

Take the time to appreciate and experience the beautiful benefits that our backyard has to offer. Don’t let any limitations hold you back, experience a world of unlimited adventure.

Get outside and get in touch with the beautiful country we call home.

With love,

Lucy