The Woods
What can a walk in the woods do for you?
A quick Google search showed me multiple articles explaining the benefits of walking in the woods or simply of being in nature. Some explained the scientific conclusions that walking in the woods decreases the stress hormone cortisol. Others discussed decreased blood pressure and increased immune system function. Other articles concentrated more on the emotional and spiritual benefits of spending time in nature. The point is, there was a lot of discussion about the phenomenon.
Personally, I have always found my time outside hiking, camping and just being in nature very calming and reassuring. I don't think that I realized how much it was actually doing for me.
I have long suffered from depression with major depressive episodes and anxiety. I have suffered from what I consider to be small "t" traumas. Until recently, I have not had any counseling or therapy, which has in no small part contributed to my drinking and problems with alcoholism. Looking back, I can see that despite what was going on for me, I was always very happy to be outside in nature. It seemed to be a place where I could just relax a bit, the problems of my life were put on hold and I was able to "just be".
I recently visited a lake that I spent a lot of time at as a child. Our family would drive up for three weeks every summer and camp. It's some of the happiest memories of my life. Being up there again made me realize how important this time my life was to me. It was a time that I was truly happy. Nowadays, I find that whether I am just walking the riverbank in my city or hiking a trail with my kids, my mind slows down, thoughts are not racing, and I am able to feel truly peaceful.
A walk in the woods is not a cure all by any stretch of the imagination. I continue to be on "my meds" and in counseling, but my time spent outside enjoying all nature has to offer, is invaluable!
You don't have to hike the West Coast Trail or backpack up a mountain, just sit in the backyard for 20 minutes.
I highly recommend it.
