Winter can be a challenging season for mental health, with the loss of daylight hours leading to a type of depression for around 5% of people in the U.S. However, experts suggest that noticing nature might offer a simple yet effective remedy. Kari Leibowitz, PhD, emphasizes the benefits of tuning into the natural world during winter as a means to improve mental well-being. Her insights are supported by research from Holli-Anne Passmore, PhD, who has found that such awareness can significantly enhance one's mental health.
Leibowitz's unique perspective stems from her experience living north of the Arctic Circle in Tromso, Norway, where the sun does not rise for months. She observed that immersing oneself in a culture "optimized for winter" can transform one's outlook on the season. By simply noticing the beauty in everyday nature, individuals can shift their mindset and find joy in the colder months.
“Both of these things help put our problems into perspective,” – Leibowitz
The practice of noticing nature involves appreciating the small details that surround us. As Passmore explains, this isn't about witnessing grand spectacles like the Grand Canyon but rather finding awe in the mundane.
“People are looking at a chickadee sitting on a branch eating frozen mountain berries. How pretty the snow looks. How the moon looks at night.” – Holli-Anne Passmore, PhD
The Japanese practice of being mindful in nature, known as "forest bathing," is noted for its calming effects. Rusly Harsono, MD, supports this idea, suggesting that such mindfulness can significantly reduce stress. Spending time in nature activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which induces relaxation and helps counteract stress.
Leibowitz further points out that recognizing nature is about understanding that it is all around us, even in urban environments.
“The sky is nature, and the grass growing between the cracks in the sidewalk is nature, and the plants in your house are nature." – Kari Leibowitz, PhD
This mindset shift makes engaging with nature more accessible and manageable. Noticeable nature can become easier over time as it changes one's perception of accessibility.
“It changes the mindset that people have about how accessible nature is. It shows them that, actually, nature is all around us,” – Kari Leibowitz, PhD
Incorporating this practice into daily life can help mitigate winter's impact on mental health. Creating an indoor forest bathing experience can also contribute to feelings of relaxation and happiness. Researchers at the University of British Columbia have found that such practices can be particularly beneficial during winter.
The Icelandic word "gluggaveður," which describes weather that's enjoyable to observe from indoors, encapsulates this notion. By taking a moment to appreciate the beauty outside from the warmth of home, individuals can engage with nature without braving harsh conditions.
Leibowitz likens this practice to planting a seed; once initiated, it grows on its own.
“You plant a seed, and then it grows on its own,” – Kari Leibowitz, PhD
Passmore's research underscores the powerful effects of noticing nature on well-being.
“Those are powerful effects, but especially in the winter when most people just lose half their life,” – Holli-Anne Passmore, PhD
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