Nature and its role in your mental health

My family and I just returned from a trip to Hot Springs and Lake Ouachita, Arkansas, as well as a visit to see family who live on a country property in the South.

It occurred to me after walks among Arkansas’ beautiful trees, boating on the peaceful and glass-like Lake Ouachita, and then sitting outside reading my book surrounded by ponds and foliage on our relatives’ property that a good infusion of nature really helps me relax, put aside any anxieties and uplift my spirits.

I’ve also noted that over time, members on Mayo Clinic Connect, like @paracat , @predictable , @rosemarya , @artscaping , @johnbishop, @windwalker, @amberpep, @virtuous69, @megan123, @parus, @hopeful33250, @IndianaScott, @disneyfan and @peach414144 have all mentioned nature or posted photos of elements of the outside world.

I suspect that others also find that nature has positive effects in their lives. Wondering if you would share what you feel the role of nature has been in your mental health?