When so much of life happens at a fast pace, behind screens and indoors, it’s easy to forget how vital the natural world is to our mental wellbeing. My training in counselling psychology leads me leads me to not just invite clients to explore their inner world, but also their outer environment, and nature consistently proves to be a powerful ally in healing and growth.
Spending time in green spaces has been linked to reduced anxiety, improved mood, and greater emotional resilience. As we embrace spring it is important to remember that even brief interactions with nature, such as a walk in the park, sitting beneath a tree, or listening to the birds chirping, can help regulate our nervous system and ease the mental clutter that builds up in our daily lives.
Nature offers something rare – a space where we’re not judged, evaluated, or required to perform. It provides sensory grounding through sights, sounds, textures, and smells, that brings us into the present moment. For those struggling with depression, burnout, or grief, nature offers a gentle reminder that change is part of life, and that growth and renewal is always possible. I sometimes recommend clients try an “awe walk” to help them reconnect with their inner child-like sense of wonder and with something bigger than themselves.
In a world that moves fast, nature invites us to slow down. Sometimes that simple shift is exactly what we need to feel more balanced and connected.
Author: Sarah Childs
Psychotherapist
