Nature and Mental Wellbeing

Jul 22, 2025

Have you ever noticed how a walk in the woods, sitting by a lake, or even just tending to your garden helps you feel a little more at ease? That’s your body responding to nature in real time. You might not even realize it, but while you’re outside enjoying the fresh air, your body is doing some pretty amazing things. 

And the best part? You don’t need to be “outdoorsy” or hiking up mountains to feel the benefits. Spending just 20–30 minutes outdoors a few times a week can lower your cortisol (stress hormone), ease symptoms of anxiety and depression, boost your mood and energy, improve your sleep and increase creativity and focus. 

Nature is full of calming sights, sounds, and smells. Sunlight boosts your vitamin D and helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Fresh air oxygenates your blood. 

But most importantly—nature asks nothing of us. No deadlines, no emails, no pressure. Just presence. 

I know for me, being outdoors is my saving grace. It’s helped me through some of the hardest moments in my life. When I’m feeling overwhelmed or stressed, I hit a dirt road—and everything else just fades away. 

Even in winter, you’ll find me sitting on a frozen lake with the sun on my face and the cold nipping at my nose. Whether I’m riding my horse, exploring back roads, sitting by a creek, or floating on a lake, I always come back feeling like a whole new person. 

We are so lucky to live in a place like the South Cariboo. We’re surrounded by an outdoor playground with something to offer in every season. In summer, we’ve got hiking trails, waterfalls, mountains to explore, and more lakes than you can count for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, or swimming. In winter, we’re spoiled with cross-country ski trails, a cozy ski hill, snowmobile routes, and prime ice fishing spots. And year-round, we have accessible trails like the one around the marsh—perfect for a relaxing walk anytime.  

And even if hiking or outdoor adventure isn’t your thing—or if getting out isn’t always easy—there are still ways to enjoy nature’s benefits. You can sit on your porch or balcony, take a walk around the block, relax on a park bench or tend to a potted plant (yes, even that counts!). 

The next time you’re outside—whether on your porch, in your backyard, or deep in the forest—try this quick 5-5-5 grounding technique to help your body relax and your mind refocus. Name 5 things you can see, 5 sounds you can hear and take 5 slow, deep breaths. It’s a small, simple practice that helps calm your nervous system and bring you into the moment. 

No matter what the great outdoors looks like for you, some time outside will do your mind and body good. 

So go ahead—open that door and let the healing begin.  

Remember to be kind to yourself, practice self-care, and reach out for help if you need it. 

If you need support, you can: 

• Contact CMHA South Cariboo for mental health support at 250-395-4883. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9 am – 4 pm. 

• Call the Emergency Crisis Line 24 hours a day at 1-888-353-2273. 

• Call the Suicide Crisis Line at 9-8-8. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Written by Kristin Buxton