For a lot of people nowadays, it’s a rarity to step away from the hustle and bustle of work and personal life. Life itself can get really busy that we can forget to hit that reset button now and then.
Connecting with nature and enjoying nature-based experiences is one of the best ways that you significantly enhance both physical and mental performance. Whether that’s reducing stress, improving overall mood, and boosting cognitive function.
With that being said, here are some helpful tips on how to improve your physical and mental well-being this year through nature-based experiences
The benefits of nature-based experiences for mental performance and well-being
There are many ways in which nature-based experiences can be found in your nearby, local area and beyond. From RV sites to any nearby hiking routes, here are some of the benefits of nature-based experiences for both your mental performance and well-being.
Reduced stress and anxiety
Spending time in nature helps to lower your cortisol levels and reduces your nervous system arousal. This also decreases rumination, which is the negative and repetitive thinking.
Cognitive restoration
Natural environments help you recover faster from mental fatigue. The ‘Attention Restoration Theory’ claims that nature allows our brains the ability to rest and, as such, helps improve focus, memory, and concentration.
Enhanced creativity
Immersing yourself in nature, whatever that might look like, is a great way to foster creative thinking and problem-solving. Some research has indicated mental clarity after spending a good amount of time in green spaces.
Boosted mood and self-esteem
Regular exposure to nature helps to boost positive feelings from increased joy, self-confidence, and calm. All you need is a more mindful and peaceful state of mind.
Physical performance and health benefits from nature-based experiences
There are several physical performance and health benefits of nature-based experiences, too. These include:
Improved cardiovascular function
Time is a great way to lower your blood pressure and reduce your heart rate, which improves overall heart health.
Higher intensity workouts
The use of higher intensity workouts combined with green spaces often feels less intense, so you may find such vigorous workouts to be easier.
Enhanced immune function
Inhaling natural compounds called phytoncides that are released by trees is shown to boost the immune system by increasing the activity of natural killer cells.
Better sleep
Regular exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep/wake cycles and leads to a better sleep quality.
How to maximize the benefits of nature-based experiences
To get the most out of every nature-based experience you go on, here are some helpful tips to maximize those occasions.
- Duration – Aim for around 120 minutes of nature exposure per week, where possible.
- Consistency – Aim for short and daily breaks of around 15-20 minutes in nature.
- Engagement – Actively engage with nature, as this provides you with more significant benefits than just passively viewing your surroundings.
- Diversity – High-quality, biodiverse areas tend to be more restorative.
Getting direct access to the wilderness is something your body and mind can benefit from highly. Make a conscious decision to spend more time in the great outdoors where you’re able to.
