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Eco-Therapy: How Nature Can Boost Your Mental Health

By Paige Lo Bianco
Paige is a biology student and Sustainability Assistant at Ontario Tech University. She is passionate about environmental conservation, sustainability, and climate justice.

Between balancing school, work, extracurriculars, and quality time with family and friends, it’s easy to feel weighed down by it all. One of the most overlooked remedies to stress is spending time outdoors among nature. Let’s dive into the science behind why nature benefits our mental health, and how you can enjoy it on campus!

The Science Behind Nature and Mental Health

Research conducted by both the Canadian Psychological Association and Yale School of the Environment have seen a correlation between spending time outdoors and improved mental well-being. Some benefits include:

  • Increased focus and ability to concentrate
  • Improved overall mood and happiness
  • Enhanced self-esteem
  • Reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, and physical stress

Some biological effects that we experience because of nature could be the cause of these benefits. It has been found that those who take time to experience nature see a reduction in nervous system arousal, increased function of their immune system, and decreased stress hormone levels and blood pressure.

Ways to Enjoy Nature on Campus

1. Take a Walk

It might feel simple, but something as quick as taking a walk outside around campus with friends is a great way to boost your mood. Oshawa is home to many trails and hiking spots including Cedar Valley Conservation Area, Harmony Valley Conservation Area, and McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve, each with beautiful scenery.

Students walking outside on campus

 

2. Study Outside

Feeling stuck while studying? Try changing the scenery! Take advantage of a nice day and bring your laptop and books outside. Find a quiet spot at an outside table or at the Muskoka chairs by the reflecting pool in Polonsky Commons and refocus in a new space.

A student sitting by the reflection pool at Polonsky Commons on Muskoka chairs

 

3. Join in on Campus Fun!

Another way to benefit your mental health with nature is to participate in outdoor activities held at Ontario Tech! Consider joining a sport team, it could be anything from an outdoor competitive team like rowing, golf, or field lacrosse, or a recreational sport offered at the gym. The Office of Campus Infrastructure and Sustainability also hosts events like biodiversity walks and campus clean-ups which are a perfect way to get outside and learn something new! Follow the sustainability team’s Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on upcoming events.

A group of people use binoculars to look at nature.

Incorporating nature and spending time outdoors into your schedule can do wonders for your mental health. So take advantage of all of the opportunities on campus to get out there. And remember, the next time you’re feeling down or stressed, take a step outside and let nature do its thing. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health assistance, please visit Ontario Tech’s mental health services for more resources.

 

References

Canadian Psychological Association. (2024, April 15). “Psychology Works” Fact Sheet: Benefits of Nature Exposure. https://cpa.ca/psychology-works-fact-sheet-benefits-of-nature-exposure/ 


Robbins, J., (2020, January 9). Ecopsychology: How Immersion in Nature Benefits Your Health. Yale Environment 360. https://e360.yale.edu/features/ecopsychology-how-immersion-in-nature-benefits-your-health