Ecotherapy (getting outside) is one of the greatest boosts to your immune system and as a result, your health. It’s almost Spring and Mother Nature is beckoning you to get outside. There are many surprising benefits of ecotherapy, like how it can help you fight the coronavirus.
Ecotherapy is about getting outdoors and becoming active in order to to boost mental and physical health. Studies reported decreased levels of depression after a walk in nature. Individuals said they felt less tense or had an improved mood after a walk in nature. These are just a few of the benefits you can experience from ecotherapy.
Eco-Therapy Research Findings Are Fascinating
- 71 percent said they felt less tense after a walk outside
- 90 percent said their self-esteem increased after a walk outside
- 88 percent of people reported an improved mood after their walk
Why Our Moods Change When We Are Outside
- Connection. We make nature and social connections with animals, trees, clouds and our surroundings.
- Sensory stimulation. Colors, sounds, fresh air, and wind, all stimulate our senses. For example, each day notice the different shades of blue in the sky.
- Activity. When we are walking it makes us produce healing, energizing chemicals like endorphins and serotonin.
- Escape from our busy lives. Reflecting, thinking and coming home to our self helps de-stresses and nourishes us.
Incorporating Eco-Therapy Into Your Life to Fight the Coronavirus
Would you like to experience some of these positive effects of ecotherapy? Listed below are some easy ways to incorporate ecotherapy into your life.
- Take nature breaks. For instance, walk outside and bird watch or spend your lunch break outside.
- Listen to nature even when you’re indoors. For example you can listen to nature sounds on an app or purchase a CD with nature sounds. Try listening to them a couple of times a week.
- Decorate with nature pictures. Keeping photos of you in nature helps remind you of your connection with nature.
- Decorate with plants. For instance, keep a plant or fresh flowers nearby.
- Connect with wildlife. Keep a small aquarium in your office, for example.
Want to learn more about how you can fight the coronavirus with Eco-Therapy?
Check out our ecotherapy video in our Mindful Living TV section and also go to our Meditation Room that is loaded with nature meditations.