Touching Grass: Nature and Its Benefits for Mental Health (Aleiyah)

As a current college student, I recognize the necessity of having to spend a majority of our time inside. Between classes, work, or simply needing time to rest, spending most of our days in our rooms is an easy option that most tend to opt for. However, it can also be very tempting to “bedrot,” especially for those struggling with mental health or having a difficult time regulating after a stressful week. 

Breaking the Bedrot Cycle

I am absolutely no stranger to the current phenomenon of “bedrotting,” as I am sure many others are in this day and age, and it is certainly an appealing cycle to fall into. During this past school year, every waking moment I did not spend in class or at work was spent hiding away in my room, far from the outside world and the stimuli within it. I found myself constantly wanting to connect with the activities and vibrance going on beyond my window, but it always felt much easier to stay in my bed and binge-watch my favorite shows. But, the easiest option is not always the best one for us.

Since my semester has ended and my summer has begun, I have started to put in more of a conscious effort in going outside and trying to enjoy the simplicity of it all. It is a relatively uncomplicated task, going outside to just sit and look around, but it can feel very daunting as well. However, as Glennon Doyle Melton once said, “If you can’t beat fear, do it scared.” Taking this advice into account, I have purposely started forcing myself out of my comfort zone, allocating time to just sit outside on my porch and look at the clouds. 

The Benefits of Touching Grass

When you finally make the leap to try something new or to put more energy into a new environment, you start to realize how much beauty is all around you. I noticed how vibrant the flowers my neighbors planted were, how nice the breeze felt, and how gorgeous the setting sun was against the blue and pink sky. It may sound silly or pretentious, but being in nature does wonders for your mental health, and it provides a much-needed break from the stresses of day-to-day life and the toxic cycle of social media that exists within our phone screens. 

Apart from personal experience, there is research to back up this idea as well. According to UC Davis Health, being out in nature can help decrease anxiety, stress, and anger levels. Furthermore, frequent access to green spaces has an association with decreased depression symptoms. There are many noticeable benefits for exploring the outside world, not only for alleviating mental health issues, but just for feeling more connected to the world at large.

You Can Do It! 

Now, I am not saying you need to pick up rock climbing as a new hobby or to sign up for a half-marathon (by all means, if you want to, do it), but there are a variety of other ways to take advantage of the world beyond your bedroom that cost nothing at all. Personally, I have started doing some of my usual activities outside, such as reading, building Legos, talking to family, eating, and so forth, all while enjoying fresh air. During my breaks at work, I walk to a nearby park and sit on the grass under a tree. Taking walks is also a great way to stimulate your senses, and it is always fun to people-watch while doing so. Even if it feels too strenuous to fully go outside, trying to sit by an open window and breathe in some fresh air can work wonders as well.

I know it can feel daunting, especially for those dealing with stress or mental health issues — trust me, I’ve been there. But, if you have the means, it is worth your while. Even for just five minutes in your day. Take a short detour during your walk to work, sitting on your front steps after school, or exploring a nearby park. There is a whole world waiting for you out there!