One of the most common self care techniques is to simply go outside. It seems hard to fathom, but even just taking a quick walk down a residential street can have a positive impact on your mental health.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), going outside has been linked to multiple benefits: including lowering stress, improving your mood, and lowering your risk of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression. From a physical perspective, going on a short walk can stimulate your body into reducing your heart rate and blood pressure.
It may seem like a daunting task sometimes to get off the couch and go for a walk. We’re here to let you know– you don’t even have to go on a walk! Even just sitting outside for five minutes can make a world of difference in times of increased stress. This is your sign to take a few minutes, log off of your phone, and go outside! You are valued, you are important, and you are appreciated. You deserve it!
References:
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
https://healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/mental-health-benefits-of-getting-outside/
Written by: Morgan Guiffre