The journey through grief can be profoundly challenging, often leaving you searching for ways to heal. One powerful and underappreciated method of healing is spending time in nature. Scientific research has shown that being in nature can help you navigate grief. For example, experts have found that having live plants in a hospital room can promote a quicker recovery for a patient recovering from surgery.
When a grieving person is gifted flowers or a plant, it is more than an act of kindness. It has an impact on overall wellbeing. Here are other ways nature provides healing:
Enhances mindfulness. Nature encourages us to be present. The beauty of a forest, the sound of waves or the sight of a sunrise naturally draws your attention away from the past and future, guiding you toward the present moment. This mindfulness can provide relief from the constant replaying of memories and worries that often accompany grief.
Physical activity. Those who are grieving often do not get enough exercise. Being outdoors prompts people to engage in physical activities such as hiking, walking or gardening, which boost endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. These activities not only improve physical health but also uplift mood, offering natural assistance with sadness and fatigue you may feel.
Connection and perspective. Nature can connect you to something greater than yourself. Observing the cycles of life and death in the natural world can help you see your own loss as part of a larger cycle. Gaining this perspective can foster a sense of peace and understanding.
Sensory engagement. Fresh air, the scent of pine trees and flowers and the sounds of birds can be profoundly comforting. The sounds, smells and images of nature can distract and soothe a grieving mind, providing a form of sensory therapy that is gentle and effective.
Stress and anxiety reduction. Numerous studies have shown that spending time in nature lowers levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Cortisol rises in the early stages of grief and impacts the brain. Having the natural reduction in stress helps alleviate anxiety, making it easier to process difficult emotions and begin healing.
Ways to connect with nature
Walking and hiking. Those in early grief may need prompting to simply get outside because grief brings with it such a deep sadness and sluggishness. Regular walks in parks, along beaches or in the mountains offer physical exercise and mental relaxation. Walking mindfully and paying attention to the surroundings helps stop ruminations. Breathing deeply as you walk to maximize the calming effects.
Bird watching. Studies show that hearing birdsong can help people feel less anxious, recover from stress faster and reduce muscle tension. Observing birds can be a soothing and joyful activity. It encourages stillness and patience, drawing your focus outward and providing a gentle reminder of life’s ongoing beauty.
Gardening. Tending to plants and flowers can be therapeutic. Nurturing life and watching it grow provides a sense of purpose and continuity. Gardening also allows for creative expression and can be a meditative practice. Planting a tree or other plant to memorialize a loved one brings extra joy to the activity.
Camping. Spending extended periods in nature, such as weekend camping trips or retreats, can provide a more immersive experience. The break from everyday distractions allows for deeper reflection and connection with the natural world.
Forest bathing. Originating in Japan, the practice of shinrin-yoku, also known as forest bathing, is a process of therapeutic relaxation. This is not physical exercise but a mindful opening of your senses. Go to a forest or other natural setting and walk slowly, sit or lie down. Slow your breathing and allow yourself to fully absorb the sights, sounds and smells.
Nature journaling: Take a journal with you when you go out into nature and write your thoughts, feelings and observations. The act of putting pen to paper is a practice that can help you process emotions and create a connection to your experiences in nature.
Nature photography: Capturing the beauty of nature through photography encourages you to look closely at your surroundings and find beauty in detail you might otherwise overlook.
Moving forward
While everyone grieves differently, nature offers a healing power. It can help you find comfort, strength and renewed hope while grieving. Witnessing nature's cycles also reminds you that life continues, and restoration is possible.
