Farm-acy – Support from the great outdoors

The importance of looking after our own mental health and wellbeing has never been more pressing, and awareness of doing so more prevalent. Often the seriousness of mental health and mental illness is not recognised, which can be really dangerous when so many are so heavily impacted by it.

Here are some ways nature’s chemical support can be part of our mental health regime.

Trees

As part of protecting themselves, trees create Phytoncides to help prevent rotting. Taking a walk near trees means that we inhale this chemical. A huge benefit of that is that it triggers our body to lower our Cortisol levels, which is our stress hormone. This hormone can cause anxiety and depression. It can also reduce blood pressure and lower our heart rate.

All the small things

Observing plants up close, the symmetry and the geometry that is in these things that seem to grow without a plan can actually do us good. It’s believed that studying nature like this is similar to the calming effect of listening to relaxing music. So taking your time when out for a walk to look around in detail can reduce stress.

Soil

In most soils there are millions of tiny organisms called Mycobacterium Vaccae that are in the air when we are walking. When we inhale these tiny (and harmless) cells it triggers our brain to release Serotonin, which is responsible, among other things, for our mood.

Water

Listening to the sound of water has been shown to decrease Cortisol production. So making this a regular part of your week can reduce stress and help you relax. The great news is that it’s any sound of water, so if you live in an urban environment a fountain or even a Spotify playlist of water can do the same. Nothing beats the feeling of finding somewhere you can sit and watch the water though.

Wildlife

A keen eye when out on a walk, catching a glimpse of a feathered or furry friend and simply stopping to observe them can increase our positivity. Much like seeing a person or food or object that excites or is beautiful and appealing our body will release Dopamine. Dopamine lifts moods and can increase motivation.