How Walking in Nature Helps Mental Health
The mental health benefits of walking are well-documented. One of the best things to do if you feel stressed, is simply to go for a walk. And even better, a walk in nature. Also read the post on how to become a volunteer dog walker.
… I withdraw, you see. I withdraw from the campaigning and the marching, I withdraw from the arguing and the talked-up necessity and all of the false assumptions. I withdraw from the words. I am leaving. I am going to go out walking. Paul Kingsnorth
Walking can help you stop your thoughts, and just focus on putting one foot in front of the other. If you walk in nature, you are helped along by the rustle of trees and the sound of birdsong. You don’t need to travel far. And you need no expensive fitness clothing.
Anxiety is a huge mental health issue these days. Now we’ve lost our ‘fight or flight’ lifestyle, often the pent-up energy has nowhere to go, and we are left feeling on edge. From mild anxiety to generalised anxiety disorder (carrying around a big bag of worries that never seems to get lighter, and feeling anxious over the smallest things).
Some people get panic disorder (feeling in danger, but there’s nothing to run from). And social anxiety disorder (a fear of being in social situations). That’s fine. But don’t stay home. Walk!
If out walking, always follow the Countryside Code to keep dogs, barnyard friends and wildlife safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, toxic flowers and trees. At the coast, read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside.
Overcoming barriers to walking
Walking is a simple, yet powerful way to boost your mental health. But, let’s face it: life throws up hurdles sometimes. How can you make walking a regular part of your routine despite these challenges? Here are some common barriers and practical tips to overcome them.
- Rainy Days: Gear up with a waterproof jacket and shoes. Embrace the fresh, earthy scent of rain and enjoy the sound of raindrops as you walk.
- Cold Weather: Layer up! Start with thermal wear and cover it with a windbreaker. Cold air can invigorate you, making each breath feel like a fresh start.
- Windy Conditions: Choose a route with natural windbreaks like trees or buildings.
- Sunny Days: Wear light clothing, a hat, and don’t forget sunscreen. Walk early in the morning or later in the evening to escape the heat.
- Safe locations. Aim for populated areas and familiar paths like urban parks or suburban trails.
Most sunscreens contain zinc oxide which is toxic to pets. So never use human sunscreen on animal friends, and wash off your skin before letting pets kiss you! Same for cosmetics and deodorants.
Walking helps you live in the present
If you have a grasshopper mind that won’t stop chattering or worrying, then walking is one of the best ways to turn off the noise. Just focus on putting one foot in front of the other, if you can do little else.
You can start simply by noticing your surroundings, whether it’s the birds singing in the trees, or the smells of the trees in a park. Get your senses involved to bring yourself back to the present.
Accept your feelings. If you are very stressed, angry or unhappy, don’t deny them. Just walk through them. And hopefully reach the other side, to let those feelings come and go. Most of the time, they are just thoughts in your head, and don’t hold the power over you that you may think.
People wait all week for Friday, all year for summer, all life for happiness. Abhysheq Shukla
Never allow waiting to become a habit. Live your dreams and take risks. Life is happening now. Paulo Coelho
‘What day is it?’ asked Pooh. ‘It’s today’, squeaked Piglet. ‘My favourite day’, said Pooh. A A Milne
Feeling bad? Take the Walking Cure!
The Walking Cure looks at the benefits of both rural and urban landscape walking, from mountains to meadows, from rivers to city parks. With a blend of anecdotal and scientific evidence, the author identifies the perfect place to walk, whatever your mood. From a path to spark creativity to a city to allay boredom to the coast, to heal grief and worry.
