How does nature help your mind
My dad was visiting this past week, and one of my favorite things about having visitors is that I get to show off where I live.
Even after all these years, I still find myself saying, "Just wait until you see this view." I feel so proud of being here and even the most hesitant visitor feels the same calmness and bliss when I show them.
Living in Idyllwild means I'm surrounded by towering pines, beautiful hiking trails, fresh mountain air, and some of the most peaceful places I've ever experienced. I never get tired of it.
During his visit, we spent most of our time outside. We explored trails here in Idyllwild and continued our adventures through different parts of California. We hiked a lot, talked a lot, and spent hours simply taking in places that remind you how incredible nature really is.
My dad has gone home now, but something stayed with me.
I feel calmer.
More inspired.
More creative.
Like someone quietly pressed the reset button. Plus my sleep has been great.
It made me think about how lucky I am to have nature so close.
Spending time in nature is one of the simplest ways to support our mental and physical wellbeing. Whether it's a walk in the woods, sitting in a park, gardening, or even looking out a window at trees, connecting with nature can have a powerful impact.
Key Benefits of Nature
Reduces stress. Time outdoors can lower cortisol (the stress hormone), reduce muscle tension, and help calm the nervous system.
Improves mood. Nature is associated with lower rates of anxiety and depression while increasing feelings of happiness and overall wellbeing.
Restores attention and focus. Being in natural environments gives our brains a break from constant stimulation, making it easier to concentrate afterward.
Supports better sleep. Exposure to natural daylight helps regulate our internal clock, which can improve sleep quality.
Encourages movement. People are naturally more likely to walk, hike, bike, or be physically active when they're outside.
Strengthens social connection. Parks, trails, and community green spaces create opportunities to spend meaningful time with family, friends, and neighbors.
Promotes mindfulness. Nature naturally draws our attention to the present moment through sounds, smells, textures, and changing scenery.
It Doesn't Take Much
One of the biggest takeaways is that you don't need a weekend camping trip to experience these benefits. Even 10–20 minutes outside can positively affect your mood and reduce stress. Small, consistent moments matter.
Simple Ways to Connect with Nature
Take a walk around your neighborhood.
Eat lunch outside.
Sit under a tree and observe your surroundings.
Listen to birds or the sound of the wind.
Visit a local park or hiking trail.
Garden or care for houseplants.
Watch the sunrise or sunset.
Open a window to let in fresh air and natural sounds if you can't get outside.
An Interesting Point
Nature doesn't have to be "wild." Green spaces in cities, community gardens, your backyard, or even views of trees from a window can provide measurable mental health benefits. The goal is simply to create more opportunities to connect with the natural world.
Spending time in nature is a simple, accessible practice that can improve mental health, reduce stress, restore attention, and help us feel more connected to ourselves and others. It's not about adding another task to your to-do list—it's about making space for something that our minds and bodies naturally respond to.
This is also one of the reasons I created the Idyllwild Yoga + Wellness Festival. Yes, there will be incredible yoga teachers, wellness experiences, music, and community—but there's something equally healing about simply being here. Spending a day surrounded by the beauty of Idyllwild is an experience in itself, and I hope everyone who joins us leaves feeling just a little more grounded than when they arrived.
This week, my invitation is simple: find a little bit of nature wherever you are. It doesn't have to be a mountain or a national park. Sit beneath a tree, take your lunch outside, or leave your phone behind for a short walk. You might be surprised by how different you feel afterward.
If you're curious about the research behind the connection between nature and mental wellbeing, I encourage you to read the full article that inspired this week's reflection:
Nature and Mental Health – Minnesota Department of Healthhttps://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/mentalhealth/nature.html
