Natural Ways to Lift Your Mood
Do you ever struggle with low mood? In these troubled times, it’s hard not to fall into gloom sometimes, so it’s useful to have strategies to help lift the spirits.
Coming from research being done to help us feel more mellow is the notion that being out in nature can have a huge effect on our mental wellbeing – as well as reducing blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension and stress hormone levels. It would seem that one doesn’t even actually have to be “out there” to get some benefits. Just seeing scenes of nature can apparently reduce anger, fear and stress and improve mood.
To get out there and walk in nature has been shown to improve memory and help us focus too, bestowing a sense of wellbeing that makes us more empathetic and cooperative.
Have you heard of “forest bathing”? It’s a Japanese idea that takes a walk in the woods to a whole new level. Fans of the idea say that inhaling forest scents during a walk boosts the immune system which fight tumours and infections. They have even studied using essential oils from cedars in hotel rooms – claiming that this has had beneficial effects on people’s immunity.
For me, it’s the sea that lifts my spirits best, but I really didn’t need to be told that – just looking out at my view of Fishguard Bay can make me feel more vital and content. How lucky I am.
Do you have a favourite place that you can go to lift your mood? We would love to hear from you. Email: Kitty at speaktofish@gmail.com.
