Reconnect with nature, reconnect with your mind
Fresh air and exercise have long been recommended as a way to improve our health. Over the last year we’ve come to rely on our gardens and green spaces even more so and many of us have rediscovered the importance of reconnecting with nature for our mental health and wellbeing, as well as our physical health.
Research has found almost two thirds of people said being close to nature meant they experience positive emotions.
Nature, whether outdoors or indoors, can generate a multitude of positive emotions, such as calmness, joy, creativity and can facilitate concentration.
This is the reason the Mental Health Foundation is raising awareness of the role nature can play in improving our mental health and wellbeing.
How a Summerhouse can create the perfect garden retreat
A Summerhouse can be placed right in the midst of nature so we’ve had some thoughts about the different ways a garden building can benefit your mental health and wellbeing.
- The perfect garden hideaway
Take some time after a long day to reflect in the natural world by relaxing in a Summerhouse garden hideaway. Whether it’s unwinding with a book, listening to the birds and insects, or practicing mindfulness. All of these calming activities amongst nature can help you find peace and joy.
- Dine alfresco
Another way to enjoy your outside space is to “dine alfresco”. Eating outside with family or friends can have a positive impact on your cortisol level (a.k.a. the ‘stress hormone’) and boost immunity and wellbeing. It’s even a great way to get some Vitamin D sitting out in the sunshine!
- Exercise with a view
Exercise has always been recommended to not only improve our physical health, but also our mental health. So why not exercise amongst nature with a view! A recent customer purchased our Sun Ray Garden Room which they use as an outdoor gym.
“It really does feel like an escape from the house and it’s nice to have a separate area of calm to reset and enjoy a workout without disturbing others in our home” said John, Scotts of Thrapston customer.
- Bring the outdoors indoors
Why not add some greenery into your garden building. Indoor plants are a great way to have something natural to see, touch and smell. The important thing is to try and connect with nature in any way possible and notice its beauty and how it makes you feel.
- Get creative
Taking part in creative activities overall can help reduce stress and boost relaxation. But why not try combining creativity with your natural environment. Turn your summerhouse into a hobby room, using it to write, draw or paint your landscapes, plants or animals and really connect with nature. All of these things can help create an emotional connection to nature which improves your mood.
- Where to position a Summerhouse
It is also important to think about where you would position your summerhouse (this can be a bit tricky if you have a smaller garden space, however, it can be done!) Think about which way your summerhouse will face, pick a view that will bring you peace and calm. It could be a green space, with lots of trees and flowers. Or even find blue spaces such as next to a pond or a swimming hole.
Nature is our great untapped resource for a mentally healthy future. So let’s get outdoors and reconnect with nature and reconnect with our minds
To find out more information, ideas and tips, here are a few links you can view
Top tips for connecting with nature