Do you ever feel like your head is buzzing, full to the brim with things? To do lists, people to see, places to go. Work, school, family, the future. It can all get a bit heavy sometimes.
One simple strategy for getting out of your head, is to go out into nature. It’s not a miracle cure-all, but it could certainly make a huge difference. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing (source). Whether you’re an avid outdoor-enthusiast or more of an indoor hobby kind of person, taking time outside is free, simple and could turn your day around.
Next time you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, or even ideally before you reach that point, head outside and see what some fresh air and greenery could do for you. You don’t need to head out into the wilderness (although that’s great too!). If you live in a city or somewhere where access to nature is more limited, explore your local park and appreciate what it’s got to offer.
A top tip for making the most of your time outside is to explore your five senses:
What can you see? Depending on the time of year, you’ll see an array of different colours, textures and patterns.
What can you smell? Are there flowers in bloom? Maybe there’s a fresh pine smell on the breeze, or if it’s rained recently you’ll get the cool smell of petrichor.
What can you taste? Feel free to take your favourite snack out with you, or see how the air feels.
What can you touch? You might feel called to kick off your shoes and stand on some soft grass, dip your feet into some water or brush your fingers along some greenery.
What can you hear? Listen to the birdsong – did you know that the nervous system relaxes to the sound of bird song because birds only sing when the environment is safe? (Source).
Taking it in turns to approach each sense will help you to mindfully connect to the outside world and disconnect from all of the noise and demands that might be going on inside your head. If you find it difficult to start, or find your mind wandering, that’s okay. Gently remind yourself that this is your time to relax and decompress and bring your attention back to your surroundings and to the sensations of your senses.
Will you spend more time getting out of your head and getting into nature?
