Despite the announcement of Unlockdown 4.0, Covid19 cases in India are still soaring. Seniors being a vulnerable group, are advised to continue to follow precautions. But 6 months of social distancing can take its toll both mentally and emotionally. Including a little bit of nature in your day can help break the monotony. Small changes like visiting a local open green space or park for your daily exercise can have healing benefits on both your physical and mental health.
Research has shown that nature is restorative. It can help improve your overall mood and reduces stress and anxiety levels. It can also provide long-term benefits. This includes reducing the risk of developing chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. Exposure to green spaces, plants and trees makes your body feel much calmer. This happens because nature has a very different effect on the brain. Connecting to nature causes your stress hormones to decrease. This enables the brain to relax, take a much-needed break and give you clarity of thought.
Staying at home how do I experience nature?
Even if you are unable to physically visit an outside green space, there are many things you can do to enjoy the benefits nature has to offer. Here are some of the other ways you can engage in nature and reap the benefits.
Look outside
Looking out of your window can be a de-stress during this period. Sitting out on your balcony with your morning cuppa can also have a calming effect on your senses. Getting a family member to take you on a drive through a green area is also an option if you are not comfortable being in public spaces. Enjoy and savour the small joys of the great outdoors from the safety of your home.
Enjoying gardens and house plants
Caring for a garden if you have one, or even a house plant, can also be very relaxing and good for wellbeing. According to The Royal Horticulture Society (RHS), having house plants helps improve mood, reduce stress and increase productivity, among other benefits.
If you would like to start a green border or bring plants into your home there are a number of online resources to help you get started. Plant nurseries all over the country have been offering deliveries on plants and supplies.
Take advantage of technology
You can use technology for viewing and listening to nature. Research shows that seeing pictures of natural scenes can be particularly effective in supporting relaxation and recovery after experiencing a stressful period. Another study found that participants viewing slides of nature experienced an emotional lift in mood. Take simple steps such as having images of nature around the house or using them as wallpaper on your electronic devices to increase your exposure to greenery.
Other virtual options include watching your favourite nature documentary or going on a virtual nature walk. And here at least you are no longer contained by lockdown. Go for a walk by a lake, hike up a mountain or stroll along grasslands surrounded by African wildlife – all of this is available on YouTube!
It is hard to pinpoint which aspects of nature provide so many benefits. But making an effort to engage with nature is without question is beneficial. Especially now as many of people may be experiencing increased levels of stress and anxiety in the pandemic.
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