Using Nature & Movement for Anxiety
When experiencing anxious energy, there are two remedies I find helpful not only for myself, but for my clients as well: Physical movement and nature. Moving your body and getting outside can be incredibly beneficial to easing the anxiety you feel. Think of the last time you did something physical like take a walk, did you feel a bit lighter after? What about the last time you sat outside and noticed the sun on your skin and the cool breeze on your cheeks, did you feel a bit more calm? Not only are these modalities helpful, but they are free and easily accessible. Let’s take a closer look at how movement and nature can be incorporated more into your self care toolbox.
Movement
Anxiety is stagnant energy in the body that can manifest as tension in your muscles, racing thoughts, increased body temperature, physical shaking, and a host of other physical symptoms. This stagnant energy needs to move in order to be released, so by taking a walk, jumping up and down, running, dancing, or working out, you are able to physically release that tension and anxiety. Finding time throughout your day to spend at least five minutes moving your body can make such a difference in how you feel and how you are able to manage any anxiety.
Nature
Being outside in nature can feel incredibly rejuvenating. Nature is calming and has healing effects to it. When you feel yourself getting anxious or worked up, get outside if you can or tend to your houseplants, interact with nature in some way. Taking a walk in the park, putting your bare feet in the grass, swimming, smelling flowers, touching or hugging a tree, let the natural world calm you. Find time in your day to get outside even for just a few minutes so be mindful of your surroundings and bring yourself out of an anxious spiral.
Helping yourself does not have to be complicated, or expensive. Utilizing these natural remedies, regularly, can make a difference in your anxiety and how you experience it. The next time you feel overwhelmed, get outside, move your body and see what you notice.
Morgan Riley, LMSW