You wake up and hear the birds chirping. The sunbeams are shining through your window and you feel a burst of energy as you open your eyes to meet the day. This is a prime example of how nature and mindfulness can impact your life. Embracing nature can be a simple act like breathing or something more involved like going on a hike. In recovery, nature and mindfulness can play a significant role in enhancing overall well-being.
This article will discuss the impact of being present and grounded in nature and how that helps you become more aware of yourself. The article will also explain the reasons behind the use of nature and mindfulness for healing and how The Guest House is a proponent of those practices.
How Can Nature and Mindfulness Benefit Me in Recovery?
Many recovery programs incorporate nature-based activities into their treatment plans. This is because nature therapies offer healing for the mind, body, and spirit. Spending time in nature is an effective way to decrease stress and anxiety. Nature promotes relaxation, which contributes to a successful recovery journey. Time in nature lowers cortisol levels and reduces distressing thoughts and emotions.
Something as simple as walking alone in nature can do wonders for your mind and soul. What’s more, nature can restore your connection with yourself. Mindfulness and nature can create self-awareness and promote emotional stability.
A 2021 research review published In SSM – Population Health revealed that engaging in 20- to 90-minute sessions in nature was beneficial for mental health. Gardening, nature-based therapy, and exercise in green spaces were the most effective activities for adults.
What Are the Benefits of Nature and Mindfulness?
The world is full of natural treasures. Spending time admiring these gems can help you to see life through a different lens. Whether you have been in recovery for a long while or are just starting out, nature and mindfulness can become a staple in your recovery journey. Practicing mindfulness while in nature can also provide you with a different perspective on your progress with your healing.
Nature and mindfulness can nurture your spirit and create a sense of connection you can turn to whenever you need. A 2019 study published in the journal Sports explains that incorporating nature-based interventions (NBIs) can support improvements in health and wellness.
Other benefits of nature and mindfulness are:
- Stress reduction
- Increased calm
- Improved sleep
- Inner peace
- Improved mood
- A greater connection to your surroundings
The Impact of Self-Awareness and Nature in Recovery
Spending time in nature can have a calming effect on your busy brain. At times it is easy to get caught up in all that life requires of you. It tends to be easy to forget how to be peaceful.
Recovery is likely harder than anything you have ever done. For that reason, it’s helpful to incorporate ease and enjoyment into your life. Mindfulness can create that sense of ease and joy as well as healthy self-awareness. Sometimes you need to step away from your problems and feel the cool breeze on your skin. Maybe you need to take a time-out in nature to collect your thoughts before making a decision. Self-awareness practices are some of the best healthy coping skills you can have in your life.
Other helpful ways to practice awareness in nature include:
- Grounding (also referred to as earthing). This technique electrically connects you to the earth beneath your feet. An article published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health explains that this connection transfers energy from the earth to your body through electrons. This feeling can create more of a sense of presence in your body and mind.
- Adventure therapy. This active modality incorporates team-building exercises to foster connection and trust. This therapeutic modality is guided by an adventure therapist and can consist of outdoor games, hikes, or team puzzles. You will learn to rely on others and connect more deeply with yourself while reaching a common goal.
- Meditation. The practice of meditation is key in using nature and mindfulness for healing. Just a few minutes of meditation each day can decrease your stress and calm your brain. Meditation coupled with nature offers increased benefits for your mental health.
How Does The Guest House Encourage the Practice of Mindfulness and Nature?
Surrounded by beautiful scenery on 52 acres sits a luxurious treatment center where you can heal yourself from the inside out. The Guest House is a place where many people feel a sense of connection and peace as soon as they arrive. You will likely feel the same way. At our facility, people become more aware of who they want to be during their recovery journeys. Often those goals include becoming more serene and calm amidst life’s stressors.
In treatment, you learn how to be your genuine self without your addiction and practice coping skills that help you channel your best self. The Guest House incorporates nature into your recovery because we believe that nature is a key component of every healing journey. It simply brings out the best in everyone.
Mindfulness can take you deeper into your sense of self. We offer programs like meditation and yoga, a pond where swans and ducks are free to come and go, trees to get lost in, and many other nature and mindfulness amenities. There is nothing greater than the impact of connection to yourself in recovery.
Nature and mindfulness can have lasting effects on your overall well-being. No matter how you choose to experience nature, you will likely start to notice improvements in your mental health. At The Guest House, we encourage a state of connection to each other and ourselves. Taking time to explore how nature and mindfulness can help you is priceless. No matter how long or short your time in nature is, you’re sure to experience the benefits. If you or someone you know is struggling, please do not hesitate to call The Guest House. We will meet you with unconditional positive regard no matter where you are at along your journey. Give us a call today at (855) 483-7800.