#6 Spend Some Time in Nature

The majority of us instinctively feel calmer and less worried when we are outside, and the evidence really supports that. Any time spent in a natural environment decreases our heart rate, blood pressure, and level of cortisol in our bodies. According to a study that looked at data from 10,000 participants, individuals who lived close to more green spaces showed less mental distress.

Shinrin-yoku, which may be loosely translated as “forest bathing” or “taking in the forest atmosphere,” is a technique that places Japan at the forefront when it comes to the therapeutic benefits of nature. 

It’s all about taking in the beauty, sounds, smells, and light of your environment while being attentive and experiencing nature with all five of your senses. It is a cornerstone of preventative care in Japan, with legally designated routes, led meditations, and organized walks.