Ahhh...summertime

It’s finally here! Snow is out of the forecast and the short, chilly days have been replaced by long, sunny ones. You’re not alone if you feel like summer is the perfect time for a mood reset. There are good reasons for that! Here are a few ways to make the most of the weeks ahead:

–Get outside. Spending time outdoors is a powerful and accessible way to enhance your  mental health. Research consistently shows that exposure to nature can improve mood, lower anxiety, and boost cognitive function. We tend to move more when we are outside, and breathing fresh air does wonders to clear our heads.

–Go green. Being outside in green spaces provides a break from the overstimulation of urban environments, allowing the mind to rest and rejuvenate. This mental restoration is linked to an increase in positive emotions, reduced stress, and a reduction in depressive symptoms and symptoms of anxiety. 

–Get relaxed. Nature also stimulates the senses in a calming way, helping to regulate the nervous system and offer immediate relief from daily pressures. Part of the reason for this is nature generally moves more slowly than the hustle and bustle of “indoor” life. 

–Get your D. Sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, a nutrient associated with lower rates of depression and better overall mental health. Fresh air and natural light also regulate sleep cycles, leading to better sleep quality-a crucial factor for emotional resilience and mental clarity. 

–Get moving. Outdoor activities often involve physical movement and social interaction, both of which are proven to further reduce stress and enhance well-being. Even brief periods spent in nature, such as a walk in a park or tending a garden, can have measurable positive effects on mental health.

If you’re cooped up inside for a lot of the day with work or household tasks, try to take short walks or outdoor breaks a few times a day. Even just a few minutes outside can work wonders, especially if you pay attention to how you are feeling when you’re outdoors. Take in all the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Mindfully noticing nature can deepen your sense of calm and connection, enhancing the mood-boosting effects.

Our team encourages you to harness nature’s restorative power to support your mental health and overall happiness! We are always here to help you tap all the tools at your disposal to improve your mental health and wellbeing. Please reach out anytime.