Hey there, beautiful souls! It’s Shannon here, and today we’re talking about something that’s close to my heart—and honestly, something that has saved my sanity more times than I can count: nature therapy. If you’ve ever spent a quiet moment in the great outdoors, you know there’s just something magical about it.
In all the ways..
Whether it’s the feel of the breeze on your skin, the sound of birds chirping, or the way the sun hits the leaves, nature has this incredible power to heal and restore us. And today, I’m here to tell you why getting outside is one of the best things you can do for your mental and physical health. Plus, spoiler alert: we make sure you get plenty of nature therapy at our retreats!
Why Nature Therapy Works
Let’s start with the basics—what is nature therapy? Simply put, it’s the idea that spending time in nature can significantly improve our well-being. And no, you don’t need to climb a mountain or go on a week-long hike to experience it (though, hey, if that’s your thing, go for it!). Just being outside, even for a little while, can do wonders for your mood, stress levels, and overall health.
Here’s why nature therapy is so effective:
- It Lowers Stress
Ever notice how a walk in the park can turn a bad day around? That’s not just your imagination. Research shows that spending time in nature lowers levels of cortisol (aka the stress hormone). Nature has this incredible ability to calm our nervous systems, leaving us feeling more relaxed and at peace.
- It Boosts Your Mood
Feeling down? Nature to the rescue! Exposure to natural light increases your serotonin levels, which is your brain’s natural “feel-good” chemical. Just a little time in the sunshine can lift your spirits and help combat feelings of anxiety and depression.
- It Enhances Focus and Creativity
If you’ve ever hit a mental block or felt overwhelmed by too many to-dos, nature might be the perfect remedy. Spending time outdoors helps clear your mind, boosts focus, and even sparks creativity. This is why so many people have their best ideas while walking in the woods or sitting by a beach. Mother Nature is the ultimate brainstorming partner.
- It Promotes Physical Health
Let’s not forget the physical benefits! Nature invites us to move—whether it’s hiking, swimming, or even a gentle stroll. Regular outdoor activities improve heart health, boost your immune system, and keep your body feeling strong and energized. Plus, vitamin D from the sun is crucial for healthy bones and immune function. (Just don’t forget the sunscreen, folks!)
How We Incorporate Nature Therapy at Our Retreats
Okay, now that we’ve covered why nature therapy is the bomb, let me tell you how we incorporate it into our retreats. Because if you thought you’d be spending all your time inside at a retreat, think again!
One of the biggest benefits of coming to a retreat (especially in places as beautiful as Tulum) is that you get to spend a ton of time outdoors, soaking in the healing power of the natural world.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the outdoor activities you can expect when you join us:
- Beach Yoga
Can we just take a moment to appreciate how much better yoga is when you’re doing it on the beach? Picture this: the sound of the waves crashing in the background, your toes sinking into the sand, and the sun warming your skin as you move through your practice. It’s pure bliss, and the combination of yoga and nature creates an experience that leaves you feeling deeply grounded and connected.
- Morning Coffee Outside
I’m a huge fan of starting the day with a little nature therapy, and there’s no better way to do that than enjoying your morning coffee outside. At our retreats, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to grab your favorite beverage and settle into a peaceful outdoor spot to sip and soak in the morning vibes. Trust me, it’s the perfect way to set the tone for a beautiful day.
- Hiking and Walking
Whether you’re strolling through a forest or hiking up a scenic trail, there’s something so therapeutic about walking in nature. It’s like a moving meditation that clears your head and fills you with fresh energy. Plus, walking is a great way to get your heart pumping without feeling like you’re “working out.”
- Forest Bathing
Okay, I know the term “forest bathing” might sound a little funny, but bear with me. It’s actually an ancient Japanese practice that’s all about immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere and letting your senses soak up the sights, sounds, and smells around you. No actual bathing required! It’s incredibly calming and helps reduce stress while boosting your immune system. At our retreats, we make time for moments like these, where you can simply be still in nature and let it work its magic.
Why Retreats are Perfect for Nature Therapy
Here’s the best part about retreats (besides the amazing food and total relaxation): they give you a concentrated dose of nature therapy that’s hard to come by in everyday life. When you’re at a retreat, you’re fully immersed in a natural setting, whether it’s a lush forest, a serene beach, or a peaceful countryside. And with guided outdoor activities, you get to experience nature in a deeper, more intentional way.
Retreats give you the space to disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with the world around you—no emails, no social media, just pure, uninterrupted time in nature. It’s a reset button for your mind, body, and soul.
The Long-Term Benefits of Nature Therapy
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “That all sounds great, but I can’t just drop everything and go on a retreat every weekend.” Totally fair! But here’s the thing—nature therapy isn’t just something you do once and forget about. The benefits of spending time outdoors can last long after you’ve returned to your daily routine.
Here’s how you can carry that nature therapy goodness into your everyday life:
- Daily Walks: Even a 10-15 minute walk outside during your lunch break can work wonders for your mood and energy levels.
- Sunshine Breaks: Take your coffee or tea outside in the morning or afternoon to get a little vitamin D and fresh air.
- Nature Getaways: Whenever possible, plan weekend trips or even just day trips to local parks, beaches, or mountains to recharge in nature.
- Bring Nature Indoors: Can’t always get outside? Bring nature inside with houseplants, essential oils, and natural materials in your home décor.
Wrapping It Up: Embrace the Outdoors for a Healthier You
So, if you’ve been feeling stressed, stuck, or just plain tired, I’ve got one piece of advice: get outside.
Whether it’s a hike in the woods, a yoga session on the beach, or just a few quiet moments with your morning coffee on the porch, nature is there to help you heal and thrive. And if you really want to dive into the healing power of nature, come join us at a retreat—because nothing beats the combination of nature therapy and a little “me time.”
Let’s embrace the outdoors, soak up the sun (with sunscreen, of course!), and let nature do what it does best: heal, restore, and bring us back to ourselves.
