In the middle of a mental health crisis, there are a million articles online on how you can “improve your mental health,” but a lot of them are missing something important - getting back to nature and back to our roots.
Being Outside is Good for You
Studies show that being in nature is good for you. Many of us, especially those who work indoors, do not get enough time around nature. Whether it is a hike, yoga in the park, camping, foraging, or maybe bird watching, being outside is good for both your physical and mental health. People have only lived indoors for a very small part of our history, and we still need that time outside to get exercise, listen to birds, and look at amazing views.
Now, though just being outside on its own is good for you, learning about the nature around you and learning survival skills can take this to the next level.
Learn how to identify things around you
Though you can hike, walk, and enjoy nature without knowing what species of plants, fungi and animals are around you, it leaves something to be desired. If you ask people that spend a lot of time outdoors, learning to identify organisms in your area can help give you a better sense of security, and more than anything, a sense of place.
If you can learn how to identify a few plants for example, you will soon see that you are more attune to what is around you. Instead of just seeing a sea of green at your local park, you will notice individual species. This connection to your ecosystem can help you feel more grounded and happier - whether it is on a long nature hike or even just strolling along in your neighborhood. To take this a bit further, It is also really great to learn what is foragable and edible around you! This way you can actually collect some fun ingredients to add to your summer salads or jams!
Learn Survival Skills
Learning skills like building a fire, constructing a snow fort, and filtering water could save your life one day, but they can also just help you connect to a primal sense of belonging in nature. Since we tend to be so separate from the outdoors, and our old way of life, we no longer know how to be a part of nature, and this can feel isolating. Learning these skills and working with your hands can help remind you that you are part of something bigger than your 9-5.
A survival course is a great way to meet like minded people and learn from experts. These camps can teach you all about how to safely spend more time outside, and what to do in case of an emergency or unexpected survival situation.
In Conclusion
An important step to improving your mental health is getting outdoors. To take this a bit further, you can foster a sense of place and belonging by learning about the natural world around you, and how you can survive outdoors. Overall, going outside to learn about plants, fungi, and animals around you, and the skills to be safer outdoors, is a great way to feel accomplished and happier!
