The topic of mental health rightfully has gained prominent attention in light of recent events globally and now sits at the forefront of our minds in our daily lives. Previously the subject of mental health was not a widely accepted and open topic of conversation. However, as we all become more aware of the matter and gain empowerment in controlling our mental state, it is becoming a universally safe-subject of discussion. A topic which we should embrace and encourage others to speak up about!
What is mental health?
There are many different ways in which we all describe the term mental health and it broadly depends on the angle that we view the subject. At The Dynamic Mind, we relate to it as the cognitive, psychological and emotional state, determining our mood and actions, linked with our full state of wellbeing.
The topic of mental health can enter a conversation in a magnitude of ways and has many factors in which it can become the focal point. The feeling of stress is a great area in which our mental health is hindered, and we recently wrote a blog covering 5 Life-Changing Actions to Deal With Stress Management – take a read and see if you can implement any of the suggested methods. If you have any extras, we would love to hear about it!
We can reflect and comment on experiencing mental health difficulties as a personal silent battle.
It can even be a hurdle that we feel that we cannot overcome and are tackling alone. Often, when in times of challenge, we may find it difficult to realise that we have a wide, loving support network around us, who we can turn to and discuss our puzzling thoughts. If you feel you are or know anyone going through a difficult time and would like a safe space for discussion, do get in contact.
Nature and the relationship with our mental health
Exploring a deep connection between nature and our mental health can have a real positive benefit, not only in our own journey but others around us. Reflect on instances of when we may have had a heated discussion with someone and we need to “cool off”. Typically, this may include a short walk outside to get fresh air. This simple act of stepping outside is a moment we are interacting with nature and utilising it to aid with our mental health and state of wellbeing. A key learn from this, is that we build a positive and deep connection with nature in times of distress as a method to heal our mental health.
Taking the opportunity to engage with nature, from a simple walk, journaling outside or sitting by a window can boost our creativity and provide us with positive energy to fuel our day. A crucial element in determining the right mindset stems from ensuring we have an appropriate environment in order to carry out our tasks.
Steps we can take to be certain our tasks are completed effectively, include but are not limited to are: allowing sufficient natural light in the room we are working in, reducing external noise, removing any unnecessary distractions and having plenty of water to maintain hydration. Additionally, a benefit of spending time in a room with windows, is that it provides us with the opportunity to take a glance outside and appreciate the world drifting past during our hectic schedule. Hence, building on creating a deep connection with nature.
Being outside and interacting with nature offers us the chance for self-reflection and appreciation for what we currently do have, but also stimulates our minds in order to take note of driving factors to excel both in our personal and professional lives. This is a great opportunity to utilise the practice of journaling to assist with positively energising the mind. Furthermore, stepping into nature allows us to reduce or remove the feeling of being isolated and instead feel more connected.
Horticulture and the connection with our mental health
Horticulture, is a segment of the art of agriculture for our pleasure, utilising plants, crops, fruits and vegetables. Even if this practice is carried out on a small scale, from our gardens to allotments and more, this has the ability to deliver great benefit to our mental health. Horticulture provides us with an immediate sense of achievement, success, confidence and a self-esteem boost, as the hours we have completed in order to cultivate are rewarded both visually and internally.
Carrying out the art of horticulture ensures that we are outside with nature and enjoying green space. It provides us with the chance to channel our focus and energy away from any stresses and challenges we may be facing. From this, we can tap into our creative elements and produce aesthetically pleasing produce to enjoy and share with others.
This activity does not have be done alone.
Take the opportunity to network with others and build a community, share ideas, learns and get creative together!
Other tactics to assist with a positive mental health in nature
There are many other strategies that can be explored in order to drive a positive mental state of wellbeing and we will touch on a few:
- Having a support network where we can share experiences in an outdoor setting.
- Fuel our body with the appropriate levels of nutrients.
- Give back to society – the rewarding feeling of giving without seeking return really does provide a great sense of satisfaction and boost our mental health.
- Rest and take breaks, but do this outside and not in front of a screen.
- Learn from others on their experiences with nature and mental health journey.
The final stretch on the importance of interacting with nature for our mental health
There are endless opportunities for us to engage with nature to better our mental health, support society and boost our morale. We need to relish all opportunities available to us, and this starts with small daily changes to interact with nature. Consequently, we will experience a positive shift in our mental health and wellbeing.
Take the time to explore a deep connection with nature, reflect on how you feel before, during and after. Document these interactions and assess whether you are experiencing a positive change. Be patient and if the first couple of times you do not feel a benefit, this is perfectly okay. Tapping into our mental health and driving a positive change is a journey and one we should be kind towards.
This post is in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK.
