5 Ways Nature Can Help You Heal From Trauma
Trauma leaves deep wounds on one's health, emotionally and physically. While therapy and other traditional methods are important, there’s something else that can aid in the healing process: nature. Time spent outdoors has been shown to improve our mental well-being significantly. Here’s how nature can support your healing journey after trauma.
1. Nature Reduces Stress and Anxiety
One of the first things trauma does to the body is trigger stress responses. Your body gets stuck in a constant state of fight or flight, which feels like continuous stress. This can be mentally and physically exhausting. Immersing yourself in nature can give you a break from this!
Studies have found that being outside can lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress. Many people start with short walks, but hiking, biking, or even meditating in a park are great options as well. Simply spending some time around trees, grass, or water can calm the mind and offer a refreshing outlook.
2. Puts You in a Better Mood
Many people with trauma experience mood swings or feelings of depression. Nature’s light—especially sunlight—can improve your mood. Natural light helps regulate the production of serotonin in your brain, a neurotransmitter that affects how happy or motivated you feel. Spending time outside in the daylight can have mood-boosting effects. Taking a short walk on your lunch break or sitting outside to read your book are easy ways to optimize your sunlight exposure.
3. Nature Encourages Mindfulness
Mindfulness is an important tool in trauma recovery. It helps you focus on the present moment, reducing the overwhelming effects of flashbacks or intrusive thoughts. Nature naturally encourages mindfulness. The sounds of birds, the feel of grass under your feet, or the gentle rustle of leaves can bring you into the here and now.
Nature's sensory engagement can help distract you from painful memories or feelings, and give your mind a break. Mindful breathing, focusing on the sounds of nature, or simply observing your surroundings can help you reconnect to the present moment. This is a simple yet powerful way to ground yourself.
4. Nature Can Boost Your Energy and Focus
After trauma, many people experience mental and physical fatigue. Nature offers a natural energy boost. It’s common to feel tired, disconnected, or unable to focus after traumatic experiences. Research suggests that spending time outside can boost your energy levels.
Research shows that time spent outdoors can improve cognitive function, such as concentration and memory. For example, walking in nature rather than in an urban setting has been linked to better focus. So, if you're struggling to concentrate or feeling mentally drained, a quick outdoor break might be just what you need.
5. Nature Offers a Sense of Safety
Trauma often strips away a sense of control over your environment. Nature, however, offers a place where you can begin to regain that control. By choosing where to go, how long to stay, and how to interact with your surroundings, nature allows you to make decisions that are entirely in your hands.
Additionally, being in nature can offer a feeling of security. Unlike urban environments, natural spaces are quieter and less chaotic, which can help you feel more grounded. Nature has a way of helping you feel rooted, which can be especially healing when trauma has caused a sense of disconnection or instability.
Conclusion
Trauma recovery is a long process that requires patience and self-compassion. Spending time in nature can significantly assist you in your healing process. If you're struggling with trauma, consider stepping outside—it might just be the break you need to begin your recovery! Trauma therapy, often coupled with other forms of treatment such as connecting with nature, can help you heal. If you have any questions for a therapist regarding overcoming trauma, you can shoot me a message on my contact page.
