Life is an ongoing journey of striving for wellness. While some people may seek professional support to heal from substance use disorder (SUD) or a mental health disorder, others merely strive for greater peace and well-being in their lives. It can be immensely valuable to recognise that one of the most profound healing resources available is located right outside one’s front door. No matter where an individual finds themself on their journey to growth, healing, or recovery, learning to reap the incredible healing benefits of nature can be paramount.
Unfortunately, many people push nature to the wayside as they attempt to keep up with the status quo of social media and digital feeds. However, nature is well-researched for providing a wide range of physical and mental health benefits, simply from being exposed to green spaces or learning to mindfully connect with one’s environment. Thus, by learning about the benefits of nature, especially for mental health and addiction recovery, a person can feel empowered to turn to nature to satisfy their ever-changing wellness needs.
For individuals seeking treatment and recovery from addiction, the Perry Clayman Project (PCP) by Rehab Today is here to help. We offer several private alcohol and drug rehabilitation clinics across the UK, working to establish sobriety and lasting wellness for all individuals affected by substance abuse. Furthermore, we recognise the healing benefits of nature, which is why we encourage our clients to get outdoors over the course of their treatment and recovery journey. We can offer the professional guidance and support that a loved one may need to effectively recover from addiction.
Why Is Nature Valuable for Our Well-Being?
As one can see, incorporating nature into daily life can provide a plethora of benefits for well-being. Still, it is common for individuals to be sceptical about how nature provides such benefits. For example, how does simply being in nature slow down our heart rate? Well, according to another article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, one theory lies in our evolutionary psychology.
The article explains that since humans are multisensory beings, “[I]t seems likely that many benefits [of nature] are delivered through the non-visual senses and these are potentially avenues through which a physiological mechanism could occur.” Further, “Natural sounds and smells underpin experiences of nature for many people, and this may well be rooted in evolutionary psychology.” In other words, nature brings us back to our senses: our roots.
When we are in nature, we remove ourselves from the hustle and bustle of daily life. We allow our senses to tune into our surroundings by focusing on the whistle of birds, the sound of a nearby river, or the gentle brisk of wind on our skin. As we become more aware of our surroundings, we also become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, thus encouraging intentional mindfulness and self-awareness.
Furthermore, by simply being in nature, our surroundings and sensory experiences can encourage us to actively engage with our environment. For example, we may feel compelled to start a garden by growing food or flowers. In turn, we learn to prioritise the natural nourishment of our bodies. We may also engage with our environment by exercising or being around animals, which can also promote many positive health effects.
Physical Benefits of Nature
Nature provides benefits in all areas of health, and most of these benefits overlap. However, by identifying specific benefits of nature in each aspect of health, a person can recognise how such benefits intertwine. A review on nature exposure and health by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health begins highlighting some of the following physical health benefits of nature.
Facilitates Stress Reduction
Arguably one of the most valuable benefits of nature on physical health is stress reduction. As stated in the article, “[M]easures of heart rate, blood pressure, and perceived stress provide the most convincing evidence that exposure to nature or outdoor environments may reduce the negative effects of stress.” When we find ourselves in natural environments, our heart rate, blood pressure, and even muscle tension reduce.
Studies also show that cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, also reduces when a person is exposed to green spaces. Cortisol surges when we are in danger. However, it also tends to linger as a result of trauma and other prolonged, stressful situations. Learning how to reduce and regulate cortisol levels is necessary, as high cortisol can weaken our immune system and make us more vulnerable to developing mental health disorders. Therefore, nature becomes an invaluable tool for managing and navigating stress.
Improves Sleep Quality and Duration
While it may be difficult to believe, nature can also produce lasting benefits for sleep health and hygiene. According to the aforementioned article, “Exposure to green space may influence sleep duration and quality.” One of the ways nature can do this is by providing “white” noise, or a sound buffer for noise that would otherwise disrupt sleep. As mentioned previously, nature can also play a role in stress reduction during the day, which can inform deeper sleep throughout the night.
Proper sleep hygiene is a necessary, yet often undermined, element of wellness. It is as essential as food and water is to our survival. According to the National Insitute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), “Research shows that a chronic lack of sleep, or getting poor quality sleep, increases the risk of disorders including high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, depression, and obesity.” By incorporating nature into our daily routine, we can sleep deeper and longer, thus improving our physical health.
Fosters Engagement in Physical Activity
Nature is also beneficial for physical wellness in that it often fosters engagement in physical activity. When we feel encouraged to be out in nature, we may consider engaging in various physical activities such as walking, hiking, and participating in other outdoor activities. Moreover, recreational activities, including horseback riding, fishing, cycling, and more, offer the opportunity for us to connect with nature on deeper levels, admiring the beauty that surrounds us each day.
In contrast, when we exercise indoors, we will still reap the health benefits of physical activity, but we will not reap the benefits that surface from being in a natural environment, such as natural stress reduction. To fully experience the physical health benefits of nature, consider exercising in outdoor environments.
Mental Health Benefits of Nature
As mentioned previously, the benefits of nature overlap greatly in each aspect of health. There is also an undeniable link between physical health and mental health. For instance, the physical health benefits of nature on stress reduction also influence mental health benefits and vice versa.
In a publication titled “Thriving with Nature,” The Mental Health Foundation lists the following mental health benefits of nature:
Encourages Greater Wellbeing Through Mindfulness
Being in natural spaces can influence a greater sense of well-being by influencing positive sensory experiences and emotions. The Mental Health Foundation explains, “Research shows that people who are more connected with nature are usually happier in life and more likely to report feeling their lives are worthwhile. Nature can generate many positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, and creativity and can facilitate concentration.”
In addition, nature facilities positive emotions through mindfulness. Being in nature allows us to clear our heads and encouraging us to connect with the present moment. Mindfulness is known to foster a host of health benefits in and of itself, encouraging us to keep the following elements at the forefront of our minds:
- Awareness
- Acceptance
- Objectivity
- Peace
- Surrender
- Generosity
- Kindness
- Gratitude
Reduces Risk of Psychological Problems
As a result of stress reduction and a greater sense of well-being, nature can also reduce our risk of developing psychological problems and mental health disorders. According to the aforementioned article by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Exposure to natural environments has been linked with decreases in anxiety and rumination, which are associated with negative mental health outcomes, such as depression and anxiety.”
Moreover, by strengthening our connectedness to nature, we can also reduce our risk of developing SUD and addiction. Oftentimes, individuals feel compelled to self-medicate mental health distress through the use of alcohol and other drugs. Over time, these individuals experience a greater risk of developing a chemical dependency in addition to worsening their symptoms of mental health. If we learn to effectively work through and overcome our mental health distress with nature, we can actively prevent substance abuse and associated consequences from wreaking havoc on our lives.
Spiritual Health Benefits of Nature
Through mindfulness, nature can influence profound benefits for our spiritual health and wellness. Taking time to appreciate creation can provide a sense of connection and awe in our lives, fostering gratitude that stretches beyond the natural environment. Additionally, in nature, we can feel comfortable expressing our thoughts and emotions without worrying about potential judgement, criticism, or being misunderstood by others.
When we feel lost, unmotivated, or discouraged, we can learn to reconnect with our intuition by spending time in nature. Nature offers a reset button unlike any other, allowing us to gain more peace of mind and inner strength.
Specific Benefits of Nature for Addiction Recovery
The broad benefits of nature mentioned previously can stretch to fit any scenario of health and healing. For individuals working to recover from addiction, it can be helpful to identify specific benefits of nature for addiction recovery. Doing so can encourage individuals to incorporate nature engagement into their daily routines, fostering greater well-being throughout long-term sobriety.
Some invaluable benefits of nature for addiction recovery include:
- Offers distractions from temporary substance use cravings
- Fosters greater awareness of substance use triggers
- Offers a readily available coping and stress management resource for triggers
- Promotes feelings of happiness and well-being, especially when participating in recreational, outdoor activities
- Provides an expressive outlet for thoughts and emotions
- Offers new perspectives, reminding us of our true nature
- Instils a sense of connection
These examples only scratch the surface of the benefits of nature for addiction recovery.
Incorporating the Benefits of Nature Into Daily Life
Understanding the benefits of nature is only the beginning of effectively reaping the benefits of nature in daily life and addiction recovery. To fully grasp these benefits, a person must be able to identify and utilise a variety of activities that incorporate natural environments and nature exposure.
A person can undoubtedly experience the benefits of nature by spending intentional time outside every day. However, such benefits may be maximised by incorporating different activities that foster engagement with nature in different ways.
Here are some examples of nature activities to consider incorporating into daily life:
- Walk a nearby nature trail
- Enjoy a meal outdoors
- Practise yoga outside
- Get closer to the water
- Buy houseplants
- Plant a garden, and tend to it daily
- Spend a few moments birdwatching
- Feel your feet planted barefoot in the grass
- Ponder the night sky
- Create a butterfly habitat
- Plan a camping trip
- Participate in wildlife photography
- Watch a nature documentary
- Discover patterns in leaves or trees
- Tune in to your senses when you are outside
- Create a nature journal
- Soak up the sun
- Watch the sunset or sunrise
Individuals can also consider incorporating recreational nature activities that are a bit more demanding. For example, try:
- Rockclimbing
- Rafting
- Surfing
- Mountain biking
- Building a treehouse
- Waterskiing
- Backpacking
- Sky diving
- Kayaking
Reducing the Risk of Substance Abuse With Nature
Unfortunately, many people do not think that they are at risk of substance abuse and addiction; however, it is essential to recognise that addiction can affect anyone. For those who have not yet been affected by alcohol and drug abuse, it is important to understand that nature can help prevent mental health problems and associated alcohol and drug addictions. It does so by fostering wellness benefits that protect against distress and disease.
For those who have been affected by alcohol and drug addiction, or especially those seeking treatment, the Perry Clayman Project (PCP) by Rehab Today is here to help.
Treating Addiction With PCP
In addition to utilising the profound healing benefits of nature, it is imperative for individuals with addiction to utilise professional resources for establishing and maintaining sobriety. PCP understands that addiction is a catastrophic disease that is ravaging the UK, causing destruction to not only an individual’s life but also the lives of their loved ones. There is no doubt that addiction is a family disease; to effectively recover, families must recognise the vast treatment options and recovery resources available.
Moreover, PCP offers a wide number of inpatient and rehabilitation programmes, ensuring that we meet our clients exactly where they are on their recovery journeys. Our recovery programmes can last anywhere from a few days up to six months, offering access to various treatment modalities, support groups, and other rehab services. We also offer programmes specifically for families, including regular family support meetings and family visits after a loved one completes their first two weeks of treatment.
Some of the specific treatment programmes we offer include:
- Alcohol and Drug detoxification
- Primary rehabilitation
- Secondary rehabilitation
- Third-stage supported housing
- Daycare rehab
- Aftercare
90-Day Programme
One of our most valuable treatment programmes worth highlighting is our 90-day (12-week) programme, as PCP is one of the only treatment facilities in the UK that offers up to three months of extended rehabilitation treatment. This programme is available through both primary and secondary formats. When used as a secondary treatment programme, individuals have access to more specialist treatments and greater educational opportunities.
During this programme, clients will spend each week focusing on one of the Twelve Steps, gradually working through the Steps over the course of their treatment. The 12-Step philosophy provides a valuable framework and foundation for an individual’s early sobriety that will also support them throughout their continued recovery.
It is important to emphasise that the benefits of nature can be experienced during treatment and recovery. At PCP, we can work to create a treatment plan that incorporates nature activities into a daily treatment regimen.
One of the most profound resources available for healing is located right outside your front door. The benefits of nature stretch far and wide, from stress reduction to facilitating deeper spiritual wellness. Further, understanding the benefits that nature can have for addiction recovery is paramount for establishing sobriety and maintaining lasting recovery success. The Perry Clayman Project (PCP) by Rehab Today offers several rehabilitation clinics across the UK, helping individuals of all backgrounds heal from the devastating effects of substance use and addiction. We can customise your treatment plan to ensure that nature-based activities are prioritised in your healing journey. To learn more, give us a call today at 08000 380 480.
