The benefits of nature on our mental health have long been documented, whether improving our mood, helping us feel more relaxed or even feel more confident. But what if the very thing that can give us so much pleasure, and can help us feel calm and have a positive attitude is also the source of stress and anxiety?
Our planet is at a critical point. The pace of the climate crisis is accelerating, as is the loss of biodiversity, the destruction of ecosystems and the depletion of natural resources around the world.
Given the enormity of the task ahead to realign our lifestyles, to change our systems of production and move towards a low carbon future, it should not really come as a surprise that we feel anxious, stressed, depressed. We are becoming eco-anxious.
The American Psychological Association defines eco-anxiety as “a chronic fear of environmental doom.” We experience negative emotional responses to current environmental problems. So what can we do if we are feeling stressed, depressed, sad, angry or just quite simply overwhelmed because our planet is suffering and our future is uncertain?
These simple techniques can go a long way to help
Breathe. Turn off our devices and take the time to reconnect with our bodies, and listen to them. Simple breathing exercises have a calming effect so we can focus on positive actions and emotions.
Find our people. We need to communicate, and talk to our close ones, or those in our support networks. Talking about our fears can help us rationalise and deal with the unknowns of the future.
Get active. Physical exercise has a known positive physiological effect, releasing endorphins into our bodies. Whether we ‘active commute’ where we get off the bus or tram several stops early, cycle, walk round the block, play football with the kids in the park, it all helps.
Align values and life. Sometimes part of the stress we can feel comes from our disconnection with the natural world around us. Taking actions that correspond with our beliefs helps to us reconnect.
Think small. Take control with one action at a time. Whether it be turning down the thermostat, upcycling or being creative with left over food, our actions do have a positive impact.
Be outdoors. Get out and about no matter how small the green space. Help to look after it too if you can. Take pleasure in each stray flower or birdsong, the different colours and sounds that we see and we hear. We can find beauty right under our noses; we just have to take the time to look for it.
Be kind to ourselves. A healthy diet, the right amount of sleep, and a good dose of laughter can go a long way to boost the morale and help us ward of negative thoughts.
So if you find yourself suffering from eco-anxiety, try not to panic. Stop what you are doing, put those devices to one side and step outside. Even in the busiest of cities, there is life, hope and beauty all waiting to be discovered.
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