The Link Between Nature & Mental Health

Each year on 5th June, millions around the globe come together to celebrate World Environment Day—a day dedicated to encouraging awareness and action for the protection of our planet. But while we often associate environmental causes with climate change, recycling, or conservation, there’s another compelling reason to protect the natural world: our mental health. 

In today’s fast-paced, digitally saturated world, the call to reconnect with nature has never been more important. For Australians, blessed with vast coastlines, rich bushlands, and diverse ecosystems, World Environment Day offers a timely reminder not only to preserve our environment, but also to embrace it as a source of psychological well-being. 

The Science Behind Nature and Mental Health 

A growing body of research has shown that spending time in nature can significantly benefit our mental health. Whether it’s a walk through the bush, a dip in the ocean, or simply sitting under a tree in your local park, engaging with the natural world has been linked to: 

• Reduced stress 

• Improved mood 

• Lower levels of anxiety and depression 

• Enhanced cognitive functioning 

• Boosted creativity and problem-solving skills 

So, how exactly does nature work its magic on our minds? 

Nature as a Natural Stress Reliever 

One of the most well-documented benefits of nature is its ability to reduce stress. Studies have found that exposure to green spaces can lower cortisol levels (the body’s primary stress hormone), reduce heart rate, and promote a sense of calm. Unlike urban environments—often characterised by noise, traffic, and overstimulation—natural settings engage our attention in a gentle, restorative way. This concept, known as attention restoration theory, suggests that nature provides a mental break from the constant demands of modern life. 

Think about the last time you walked barefoot on the beach or stood silently in a forest. That quiet sense of awe, the rhythmic sounds of waves or birdsong—these experiences ground us in the present moment and help soothe our overstimulated nervous systems. 

A Natural Mood Booster 

Nature doesn’t just relieve stress—it actively boosts our mood. Exposure to sunlight increases levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. This is particularly important in combatting seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression related to changes in seasons and reduced sunlight. 

In Australia, where sunny skies are plentiful, we have a unique opportunity to harness the mental health benefits of the outdoors. Even a brief lunchtime walk in the sun can offer a mood-lifting boost and help regulate sleep cycles by supporting healthy melatonin production. 

Connecting with Nature to Ease Anxiety and Depression 

Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. One landmark study by Stanford University found that participants who walked for 90 minutes in a natural setting showed decreased activity in a part of the brain associated with rumination—a common feature of depression. 

Nature also offers a space for mindfulness—a practice widely recognised for its role in managing mental health. Whether it’s watching waves crash, observing wildlife, or feeling the wind on your skin, nature encourages us to be present, anchoring us in the here and now. 

Nature as a Catalyst for Creativity 

Beyond its calming effects, nature can also stimulate our creative thinking. Being in natural environments has been found to enhance problem-solving skills and spark imagination. Disconnecting from technology and immersing ourselves in natural beauty allows our brains the freedom to wander, make new connections, and think more expansively. 

This is particularly valuable for professionals working in creative industries, students, or anyone seeking a mental “reset” from routine thinking patterns. Next time you’re stuck on a problem, try taking a walk outside—you may be surprised at how quickly inspiration strikes. 

Fostering Connection and Community 

While nature can offer solitude and personal reflection, it also serves as a powerful social connector. Group activities such as hiking, gardening, or beach clean-ups provide opportunities for meaningful connection—something that’s vital for mental health. 

In Australia, there are countless community initiatives centred around the environment, from Landcare groups to local bushwalking clubs. Participating in these activities not only supports environmental conservation but also nurtures a sense of belonging and purpose. 

How to Incorporate Nature into Daily Life 

You don’t need to live near a national park to benefit from nature. Here are some simple ways to make nature a regular part of your mental wellness routine: 

1. Start or end your day with a nature walk.
   Even a 10-minute stroll in a nearby park or around the block can be restorative.
2. Eat outdoors when possible.
   Whether it’s breakfast on the balcony or lunch in the garden, dining outside can be a sensory experience that boosts mood.
3. Bring nature indoors.
   Houseplants, fresh flowers, or even nature-themed artwork can help create a calming indoor environment.
4. Try “green exercise.”
   Combine physical activity with nature exposure—like hiking, cycling, or yoga in the park—for a double dose of mental health benefits.
5. Take a tech break in nature.
   Leave your phone behind and allow yourself to fully unplug during time outdoors. This helps strengthen your connection to the present moment.
6. Practice mindful observation.
   Choose one natural element—a tree, the sky, a bird—and spend five minutes observing it closely. Notice colours, shapes, movements. This is a simple but powerful mindfulness practice.
7. Get involved in environmental volunteering.
   Joining a clean-up day, tree-planting project, or community garden not only supports the planet but reinforces your own sense of purpose and community.

Celebrate World Environment Day by Reconnecting with Nature 

This World Environment Day, let’s expand the conversation beyond climate change and carbon footprints. Let’s talk about the human side of environmental care—the way the earth takes care of us. 

Australians are uniquely positioned to embrace the outdoors, yet many of us still spend the majority of our time indoors, behind screens. As we mark World Environment Day on 5th June, why not take the opportunity to step outside—breathe in the fresh air, feel the earth beneath your feet, and reconnect with the natural world that sustains us in so many ways? 

Because in protecting nature, we protect our own mental well-being too. 

Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or low mood and need support? 

Spending time in nature can be a helpful part of your mental health toolkit—but you don’t have to go it alone.  

At CBT Professionals, our team of registered psychologists offers evidence-based therapy tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or life stressors, we’re here to help you feel better and live well. 

Helensvale: (07) 5551 0251  

Mount Gravatt: (07) 3102 1366  

Nerang: (07) 5668 3490  

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or lifestyle.