Why you need to spend more time in nature
Our modern lifestyle keeps us indoors more than ever. We’re tied to screens, schedules and artificial lighting, and heading outdoors is a luxury. But humans are designed to be in nature – even thrive in nature. Time spent outdoors isn’t just refreshing, but a fundamental part of wellbeing.
Here’s why prioritising time in nature is one of the best things you can do for both your body and mind.
Nature helps you unwind & de-stress
Feeling tense or overwhelmed? Stepping outside could be the quickest way to reset.
Research shows that spending time in green spaces lowers stress hormones like cortisol while helping to calm the nervous system. The sound of birdsong, the sight of trees, and even the feeling of fresh air on your skin all help shift your body out of ‘fight or flight’ mode and into ‘rest and digest’.
Nature has a way of encouraging us to slow down and feel more grounded. Whether it’s a walk through the bush, sitting by the ocean, or simply enjoying your morning coffee outdoors? Small moments add up to big benefits for your stress levels and overall resilience.
Time outdoors supports mood & mental wellbeing
Ever noticed how a short walk outside can lift your mood? That’s not a coincidence.
Exposure to natural light and fresh air triggers the release of serotonin – a brain chemical that helps regulate mood and energy. Nature also encourages mindfulness, helping you to stay present and break the cycle of anxious or overwhelming thoughts.
For those managing low mood, anxiety, or burnout, spending time outdoors can be a game-changer. The best part? You don’t need hours of hiking to see the benefits. Just 10-20 minutes a day can make a big difference.
Your immune system loves the outdoors
Getting outside isn’t just good for the mind. It actively supports your immune system.
When you breathe in fresh air, particularly in forests or natural environments, you inhale compounds called phytoncides. These natural chemicals are released by plants, helping to boost immune function and reduce inflammation.
Sunlight exposure also plays a key role in immunity by helping the body produce vitamin D. And if you’ve ever heard me rave about vitamin D, you’ll know it’s crucial for preventing infections, regulating the immune response, and even supporting gut health.
Better sleep starts with natural light
Struggling with sleep? Spending time outdoors could be the missing piece.
Natural light exposure during the day helps to regulate your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. This ensures the right balance of wakefulness and melatonin production for deep, restful sleep.
Morning sunlight is particularly effective for resetting your sleep-wake cycle. But even small changes can make a big difference in improving sleep quality. Try enjoying your first coffee outside or taking a quick lunchtime stroll.
Regular time in nature reduces the risk of chronic disease
The benefits of nature extend well beyond mood and sleep. It plays a role in long-term disease prevention.
Spending time outdoors is linked to:
Lower blood pressure and improved heart health
Better blood sugar regulation (important for metabolic health)
Reduced inflammation, a key driver of chronic disease
Simply put? The more you’re in nature, the better your health outcomes. It’s one of the easiest (and most enjoyable!) ways to support your long-term well-being.
How to spend more time in nature
Now that you know why time in the great outdoors is an investment for your health, how can you get more of it? After all, we all live busy lives – so the key is to find ways to work it into your current routines. Some examples include:
Going for a walk outside while on the phone
Spending time in the garden with your children
Including outdoor adventures such as picnics or hikes to your weekend activities with family or friends
Picking up an outdoor hobby such as cycling
Moving your morning coffee or lunch outside when the weather allows
Visiting your local community garden
Start small, and build from there. It all adds up.