Go Touch Some Grass…No Seriously!
By: Mackenzie Howard, LCMHCA
Spring has officially sprung and while the North Carolina weather can make us feel like we’re playing peekaboo with the sun, there is an excitement in the air around consistent days of cloudless skies and warm weather and gentle breezes. Similar to animals coming out of hibernation, many humans liken the transition from Winter to Spring as a reawakening of sorts. Our bodies crave sunlight, fresh air, and yes…GRASS!
A 2024 study conducted by Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition reported “over 50% of the world’s population lives in cities” and the number is only increasing. Research indicates those who live in cities are more likely to “overreact to stress” and self-report higher levels of technology related stress due to cellphone, computer, and social media use. The study results highlighted a correlation between exposure to nature and increased creativity and focus. Additionally, individuals who physically touched grass and spent time near natural landscape reported higher levels of relaxation, lower stress, and “heightened levels of contentment.” If you’re unable to get outside, the study indicated that even having a plant in your space can make a difference in improving stress levels and sense of relaxation.
What does this mean for us? It means we need to get outside! One of my favorite ways to end therapy sessions during Spring and Summer is saying, “Make sure you go outside. Even if it’s just for a few minutes. Put your feet in the grass, lift your face to the sun, and take some deep intentional breaths.” It’s simple advice, but such an easy way to reset, reconnect, and ground oneself. We spend so much time hunched over our computers, in offices, from sunup to sundown. Taking just a few minutes for yourself to relax is such an underrated way to pour into yourself. There’s an undeniable connection between mental health and stress levels, and it’s so easy to push self-care to the side as something get to later. Perhaps understanding the benefits of something as simple as putting our toes in the grass can inspire us to be more intentional about taking just a few minutes to care for ourselves, so we can show up as the best version of ourselves.
If you’re interested in spending more intentional time outside, using apps like AllTrails is an excellent way to find local walking greenways and hiking trails of all levels. In RDU, we are super lucky to have access to beautiful outdoor spaces like Dorothea Dix Park, Duke Gardens, and Downtown Cary Park.