10 low-energy ways to connect with nature at home
It is well known that nature and wellbeing go hand in hand - but what happens when you’re too ill or don’t have the energy to go on long, rambling walks?
Next week is Mental Health Awareness Week (10-16 May) and the theme this year is nature. You might see lots of advice about getting outside for some exercise, digging up your garden, or visiting a local nature reserve. Whilst those are lovely things to do, and great for your health and wellbeing, I know they aren’t always possible when you have a chronic illness.
If you have mobility issues, are suffering from chronic pain or fatigue, or are self-isolating, there are still ways you can connect with nature at home. I’ve pulled together a list of ways for you to enjoy nature and boost your mental health and wellbeing, without using too much energy. You have to save those precious spoons wherever you can!
1. Follow some nature photography accounts on social media
Social media has its positives and negatives when it comes to your mental health and wellbeing. Instead of scrolling mindlessly, which can often lead to negative feelings, try seeking out accounts that make you feel happy or peaceful.Good nature photography makes you feel like you’re right there amongst it. You can see places of natural beauty that you could only dream of visiting in person. The Forestry Commission has a blog where you can find great accounts to follow: 18 Instagram accounts to follow if you love nature
2. Take a virtual tour of a national park
The pandemic has spawned a huge growth in virtual tours, and you can now take a virtual tour of many of the world’s most-loved beauty spots. You can now dive into the Grand Canyon in the USA, see the Northern Lights dancing above Abisko National Park in Sweden or venture down the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland - all from the comfort of your blanket fort. Find more virtual tours in this article from The Real Word travel blog.3. Listen to nature sounds as you read or rest
If you spend a lot of time reading or resting quietly, try putting on some nature sounds in the background. I love the sound of a thunderstorm, and that’s my go-to sound when I take a nap. Experiment and see what suits you - it might be forest sounds, waves crashing on the shore, or the pitter-patter of heavy rain. You can usually find plenty of options on YouTube, Spotify, or via your virtual assistant (Alexa or Google).4. Watch a nature documentary
Watching a good quality nature documentary can help you feel connected to the natural world and learn more about it. There are so many options out there, and I’m sure a scroll through the various TV streaming services will give you plenty to choose from. Personally, I think you can’t go wrong with David Attenborough. Aside from his expert knowledge, I think his soothing voice alone will have a positive impact on your wellbeing!
5. Get some grass between your toes
I love the tickle of grass on bare feet. If you have a garden or access to one, head out and sit on the grass. Take your shoes and socks off, or run your fingers through it. It might sound simple, but it can be really effective. If you’re feeling adventurous and live near a beach, you could try it with sand instead.6. Order some fresh flowers to your door
There are so many companies offering flower deliveries now, so there is plenty to choose from. You can even get ones that fit through your letterbox, so you don’t even need to get up to answer the door. Choose a bunch of your favourite flowers or a nice spring bouquet to bring a little brightness into your home.7. Grow some herbs on your kitchen windowsill
You might not be up to landscaping your garden, but you could plant some herbs for your kitchen windowsill. You can buy kits online that contain everything you need, or you could even buy a ready-potted one from your local supermarket. They will smell delicious sitting in your window and you have the bonus of being able to use them in your cooking.8. Add some plants to your decor
Adding plants to your home can really make a big difference. They can brighten the place up, add a little style and bring the outdoors in. If you aren’t green-fingered or have allergies, go for artificial plants. You can get some really lovely ones and they are much less high maintenance than the living variety.9. Ask a friend with a dog to visit you in your garden
If you know someone with a four-legged friend, ask them over for a coffee in the garden and let them know their furry pal is welcome to come along. Dogs are often used as therapy or assistance animals, and petting them can be very calming. If their dog isn’t the calming, lapdog type, you can enjoy watching them excitedly explore your garden instead.10. Diffuse some essential oils
Essential oils are said to have health and wellbeing benefits, and they can certainly help to lift your mood. The clean, fresh smells of tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint are great for bringing a little bit of nature inside your own home. Lavender has a lovely, calming influence and citrus smells like grapefruit or sweet orange can be refreshing.I hope that gave you some ideas for ways you can connect to nature at home, whilst saving your precious energy. Looking after your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and often the two go hand in hand.
Mental Health Awareness Week runs from 10-16 May.
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