7 Things You Can Do in Nature for Healing

When it comes to emotional healing, there are a lot of things you can do. You can do 
physical exercise to release endorphins, write in a journal for clarity and self-awareness, 
try holistic remedies like reiki, or you can get out in nature.

Nature provides some amazing natural healing abilities that other methods just don’t 
come close to. Here are 7 of our favorites.


1. Go Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-Yoku, is a Japanese practice of immersing 
oneself in nature and mindfully experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of the 
forest. It involves slow and intentional walks in nature, taking deep breaths, and using 
all of your senses to connect with the natural environment. Forest bathing has been 
shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost mood.


2. Go on a Hike or a Walk

Hiking is a fantastic way to relieve stress while getting exercise and being in nature. 
Whether it's a leisurely stroll on a nature trail or a more challenging hike in the 
mountains, being surrounded by natural beauty can help clear your mind and reduce 
stress. The physical activity also releases endorphins, which are known as "feel-good" 
hormones, further enhancing the stress-relieving benefits of hiking.


3. Try Some Gardening 

You can also go outside to work in your garden. Gardening is a therapeutic activity that 
allows you to connect with the earth and create something beautiful. The act of planting, 
nurturing, and watching plants grow can be incredibly calming and fulfilling. Gardening 
has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall well-being. You 
can start a small garden in your backyard, or even grow plants in pots on your balcony 
or windowsill if you don't have access to a garden.


4. Enjoy a Local Botanical Garden

If you don’t have a backyard or just aren’t interested in gardening yourself, why not visit 
a local garden? Most cities and towns have one close by or at least a few towns over. 
You can walk through the fields of plants and flowers and just enjoy the sights and 
smells. This could be a fun little excursion with friends or family.


5. Go On a Picnic
Picnicking is a simple yet enjoyable outdoor activity that can help you relax and de-
stress. Pack a delicious meal, grab a blanket, and head to a nearby park or beach for a 
leisurely picnic. Spending time in nature, enjoying good food, and being present in the 
moment can help you unwind, let go of stress, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.


6. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset

For a little beauty and magic, why not wake up for the sunrise or stay outside for the 
sunset? These are such beautiful events that occur every single day, and can be a 
wonderful thing to witness. Unfortunately, many people don’t have the time or simply 
don’t realize how healing it can be for such a simple, natural sight.


7. Watch Wildlife


Observing wildlife in their natural habitat can be a fascinating and calming experience. 
Find a serene spot in nature, such as a park, forest, or by a lake, and spend some time 
observing the wildlife around you. It could be birds, butterflies, or even squirrels playing. 
Watching wildlife can help you disconnect from the stressors of everyday life and 
connect with the tranquility of nature.



