Health & Wellbeing

How Nature Can Improve Your Mental Health – Tips for NHS workers

Discussing mental health openly and honestly can spread awareness, provide support and offer ideas. For instance, a great way to combat our struggles is through nature. No, seriously, trust us. It helps.

Nature is an excellent mental health resource.

It has been proven that connecting with nature is a great way to alleviate stress and improve our mental well-being. Regardless of your location, taking some time to go to a local park, the beach, or simply enjoying your garden on a beautiful summer evening is crucial for your overall health.

Connecting with nature can be an excellent way to boost your mood, but you do not have to participate in activities like those on the show “I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here” to feel at peace. Simple activities like taking a walk or having a picnic can be even more effective.

The Team

After a year of being trapped indoors, we want to inspire our members to get out and enjoy nature as much as possible. In line with government guidelines, of course. One of the best things we can do during these unpredictable times is share coping mechanisms, tips, and tricks with one another. The Health Service Discount team has shared some of their favourite nature-inspired activities that help their mental health.

I love going for a walk in the early hours of the morning when everything is quiet. It’s soothing!” – Michael.

For me, walking my dog, hiking, and camping really help my mental health. It helps me disconnect.“ – Jack.

Personally, I use photography to help me release. That is why I like to get outside and capture some beautiful pictures!“ – Olivia.

I enjoy going for long walks with views. It helps clear my mind and escape from the world.” – Aimee.

Inspiration

Do you need some inspiration to help you get outside and enjoy nature? Well, we have you covered. Why not try and:

  • Take a walk in a green space, like a park.
  • Eat meals outdoors. Picnics are perfect this time of year!
  • Try and exercise outside.
  • Take the dog (or cat) for a walk outside.
  • Plant and grow food in your garden.
  • Help the environment by picking up litter, volunteering for a conservation product, or planting helpful seeds. 
  • Connect with animals – visit a local farm or try and watch wildlife.
  • Buy houseplants.
  • Water your houseplants.

How To Get Involved 

Donate

Now more than ever, charities and organisations such as MIND need our help to continue fighting for Mental Health. There are many ways to help support Mental Health Awareness Week. Why not donate to MIND can help continue the fight for mental health while supporting those struggling. Click here to donate to MIND. 

Share your experience 

Now it’s your turn! We want to hear from you; how nature has supported your mental health?

This can be as simple as going for a walk, sitting in a park, or caring for your house plants. Head over to our social media or leave a comment below and let us know your tips, tricks, or what you do to prioritise your mental health. We want to share our member’s advice and support on our social media!

Use the hashtags #MHAW and #FightForMH to join the conversation.

Please visit the Mental Health Foundation or MIND for more information about this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week.

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