The healing power of spring: drawing on nature’s cycle for wellbeing
Pablo Neruda writes, “You can cut all the flowers, but you cannot keep spring from coming.” Despite winter’s coldness and darkness, there is always the inevitable hope of spring – a season of renewal. As the days grow longer and nature blooms, it offers us an invitation to reconnect with the world around us. Beyond its beauty, spending time outdoors has profound benefits for mental health. Research consistently shows that being in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and foster mindfulness. Spring is the perfect time to embrace these healing benefits and integrate nature into your daily routine: Stress reduction Spending time outdoors can lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Studies suggest that even short periods in green spaces can have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to counteract the pressures of daily life. Mood enhancement Exposure to sunlight increases serotonin levels, which are linked to feelings of wellbeing. Natural environments al...