When fighting to protect the environment, we can sometimes forget that we need to protect our minds too.
Eco-Anxiety: Refers to the fear and anxiety we feel when we think about climate change. e.g. hearing the words “it’s too late” or seeing the latest natural disaster on the news and feeling a sense of anxiety about the state of the world we live in
It’s only natural to become overwhelmed in your sustainable lifestyle journey. It can be daunting to look at the world around us and wonder how things can ever improve. But it’s times like that when it’s important to take a step back, take some time out, and give yourself time to recharge.
One of the best ways to do this is to get out into nature. Research done in 2015 found that brain activity was altered by outside activity. Participants who did 90 minutes of walking were found to have lower activity in their prefrontal cortex (the part of your brain that focuses on repetitive negative thoughts).
Similarly, research has been done that shows that having a view of/being in nature helps reduce pain levels. There is a genetic connection between finding elements of nature so engrossing that we become distracted from our own pain. And if your eco-anxiety is leaving you feel uninspired and unmotivated, then spending four days in nature away from screens can improve problem-solving skills by 50%!
The benefits of getting outside to quiet your mind and reduce stress are clear, but what are some activities that you can do?
Go for a walk – we’ll start with a simple one here. This lockdown period has definitely shown us the happiness that comes from our daily walks. Even if it’s just to walk up to the local shops for some milk, or around the block with your dog, some form of walking is great for your mental AND physical health.
Meet some friends – sometimes when you’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed all you want to do is be alone, but sometimes being with other people is what you need. Grab a coffee with friends or have a picnic in the park. Whatever you do, I’m sure it’ll have you laughing and smiling again.
Blow some bubbles – just writing those three words makes me want to go blow some! There is nothing as calming as blowing bubbles; you can envision yourself breathing out all your negative thoughts into that bubble and feel them released as it floats away.
Do some yoga – there are so many videos on YouTube that you can watch to get you started on some basic yoga. Even just taking five minutes out of your day to go into your garden and stretch will make you feel great.
Go for a swim – or any other high-intensity movement, like a run. These types of sports are great for when you’re feeling overwhelmed as they require focus and concentration. Also, the continuous movements can be calming for the mind.
These are only a few outdoor activities that you can do to help release your eco-anxiety. Just remember, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed – take some time out. Nothing is more important than your mental, and physical, health. As pressing as climate change is, there are millions – if not billions – of us across the world all fighting the same fight. You can give yourself a day off. You deserve it 💚
Notes: For further mental health support see the Mind UK website.
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We share simple eco friendly tips to help you lead an imperfect sustainable lifestyle. We believe that "small steps are still steps" and that we can all have a positive impact on the planet - no matter how small.
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- Naomi x
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