It is a widely known fact that being out in nature is highly beneficial to mental health. In Japan, there is something known as “Forest Bathing” where people go out into the forest and just surround themselves with nature. This practice can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and other various ailments. My own doctor even advises me to turn to the natural world when I’m feeling overwhelmed. As gravel crunches underfoot, birds and insects sing their songs, and a scent of autumn fills my nose, I consider why nature is so calming. I wonder, what about being in nature can be this healing? The feeling of being at peace that washes over me as I watch the treetops sway in the breeze is rooted in the idea that all of this exists, whether I’m here or not. I feel so small compared to the tall trees and deep valleys around me, and it is extremely comforting. I truly believe that more people should turn to the natural world when dealing with things such as anxiety, depression, and daily stress. Turning towards a distraction (such as social media or other technology) when these feelings come up may provide temporary relief, but all we are really doing is pushing the negative feelings further inside of us, where they can grow and show themselves through various side effects. In order to find true relief from negative emotions, it is important to first recognize them, and then become more aware of how you let them influence you. This can be achieved through the practice of mindfulness, which is defined by Jon Kabat-Zinn, the creator of a program called mindfulness-based stress reduction, as: “Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” The practice of mindfulness is much easier when you are surrounded by the natural world with far less distractions. Next time you are feelings overwhelmed by life, try going out to a quiet spot in the woods and just sitting with your thoughts and feelings. Let them exist as they are, and then simply let them go.
