We utilize several hiking locations for our hikes, rucks and other events, both therapeutic and for awareness. Nature Preserves maintains many of them and does so very well. The staff at Nature Preserve reached out and asked us to be part of a video explaining how nature can benefit our Nation’s Heroes mental health. Whether you are a city type person or country type person, spending time in nature can benefit everyone. But, to reap the mental health benefits, individuals need to spend time in nature multiple times. The more frequently and consistently, the more it will benefit you.
Nature provides many ingredients to a healthier mental health whether it is repairing or maintaining. From the colors (green), to sounds, smells, less distractions, and being economical, nature is here for us all. The color green has been known to offer a more clear mind with a better thought process. Studies have been done with children, young adults and seniors all showing a positive impact from incorporating nature and the color green. The sounds in nature are calming and produce a “white noise” effect that assist with reducing distractions and increasing our thought capabilities. Removing the noise of beeping horns, vehicles, people, industry, etc., reduces distractions. The smells while in nature are filtered allowing for cleaner air with less to no fumes from the everyday world. Less distractions with the elimination of noise pollution from industry, traveling and more. All of this with no requirements, no expectations and no fees.
Whether it is a Woods n Water event, another event or visiting on your own, nature has it benefits that we all should take advantage of. Just please remember to adopt the mindset of “leave it better than you found it”. Meaning, do not discard your trash while there and if you find trash (litter) while using nature, pick it up and discard it properly. If you insist on having music, use a less imposing means of hearing it so others can enjoy the sounds offered by nature. Use ear buds, headphones, etc.,
Whether you are hiking, rucking, meditating, reading a book or any of the many activities that can be explored in nature, we all can benefit from our time visiting.
Thank you Paws Healing Heroes for being part of the video. We wanted to address how the public should interact with individuals that have a Service Dog with them and the differences between Service Dogs and emotional support & therapy dogs.
Please remember and share 988. 988 is a convenient three number system that offers aid for those struggling with their mental health. They also offer text and chat options for those seeking other than speaking to someone options.