Mental Health and the Outdoors

By Dillon Fountain

"I’m going for a walk."

I’ve repeated this phrase countless times over the years when feeling upset or frustrated. My favorite walking spot is the forested area around my house. Throughout my life, the outdoors has been essential in handling life's challenges, providing a space for self-reflection and calming down. Interestingly, nature and spending time outdoors significantly contribute to maintaining mental health. Research shows a strong correlation between exposure to nature and improvements in both mental and physical health.

Spending time outside has been shown to decrease stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting cognitive and brain function. It can also lower blood pressure and enhance immune function. Those who spend an average of six hours a week outdoors typically experience fewer depressive episodes compared to those who remain indoors. Nature walks and outdoor activities can serve as effective coping mechanisms for individuals with chronic mental health disorders and have even gained traction as a technique for those suffering from PTSD.

Taking a walk or spending time outside can stabilize your mood. When you're emotional, a walk can help regulate your feelings, aiding in maintaining relationships and keeping you calm in challenging situations. Experiencing extreme emotions, like anger, can be mitigated by a walk outdoors, which can have an immediate positive impact on your mood.

Beyond mental health benefits, spending time outside is excellent for physical health. Walking in the woods or a park is a great form of exercise. Mentally, immersing yourself in nature can give your brain a rest, lowering sensory overload common in more stimulating environments. Familiar walks can enhance pattern recognition and help you remember and recognize local flora and fauna, a practice I particularly enjoy.

Please enjoy the photos I've taken while immersing myself in nature!