With over seven years of experience in the mental wellness field, I’ve seen a consistent pattern among clients who spend regular time outdoors—they report lower stress, improved mood, and better overall mental clarity. Nature exposure, whether through hiking, walking in a park, or even sitting under a tree, has been shown to lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and enhance focus. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that spending just 20 minutes in a natural environment can significantly reduce stress hormones, even without exercise.
In my practice, I often recommend “green time” as a non-medicated strategy to support emotional balance. Nature promotes mindfulness; the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world help redirect attention from internal stressors to the present moment. For individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, or burnout, regular outdoor time can become a grounding ritual. Many mental health professionals now include nature therapy in treatment plans for its evidence-based benefits and accessibility.
To begin, start small—take a 15-minute online pokies walk in your local park, or step outside for your morning coffee. No special equipment or training is needed. As someone who has both studied and personally experienced the positive impact of nature, I can affirm: the outdoors offers a natural form of healing. In a digital world filled with noise and pressure, nature remains one of the most trustworthy paths to restoring mental peace.