Different religions and cultural experiences throughout the world encourage meditation by connecting with nature. As one ages, it’s extremely critical to channel out negative emotions and nature offers the best solution. 

The concept of “outside-in” is now being widely accepted for its mental and physical benefits. Even if outdoor excursions are not possible because of the COVID-19 outbreak; through basic aesthetical changes, the outdoors can be brought in for health benefits. 

Let me walk you through five simple ways to keep your mind and body healthy by bringing outdoors in:

1. Invest in Indoor Plants

Doctors and therapists say the best medicine to overcome intrusive and stressful thoughts is to walk in greenery. Immersing yourself in nature, melts away tension and anxiety. The sensory stimulation provided by green grass and leaves improves mental cognition.

Nothing can replace the freedom of relaxing or wandering in a garden, but if you can’t go outdoors, bring nature indoors. Enrich your home with flowers and house plants. Those who are fortunate to be blessed with a garden, use that to your advantage. If not, creating garden-like spaces throughout your home will work wonders too. For instance, place potted herbs in the kitchen has similar health benefits. Please make sure you look after these plants; taking care of them will keep you engaged.

2. Buy Rattan furniture 

Rattan furniture immediately connects you with nature. They are made from natural materials and offer a visual connection to the outdoors. Create a cozy little corner in your house and decorate it with a rattan pod swing. Through swinging, it releases endorphins in your brain to reduce stress, and it will take you to a beautiful getaway and release your tensions of the day.

3. Let the Sunlight In

Flood your home with natural light first thing in the morning by opening your curtains. You and your house plants are going to love the light. Sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D. Although it’s not a cure for mental health issues, it’s a great mood booster. 

4. Use Natural Materials for Home Décor and Flooring

Use materials such as wood or stone found outdoors and make them a part of interior decor. Cut flowers, wooden boxes, pinecones, to rocks in a bowl are excellent and accessible examples to create and find. Similarly, flooring designed from cork or bamboo makes your home feel closer to nature. If you can’t change the floor, consider area rugs made from natural material.

5. Listen to the Sound of Nature 

Medical science says that listening to the sound of nature has similar effects as going outside. A report published in 2017 measured brain activity in people as they listened to natural/artificial environments. The sounds of nature reflected the brain activity of the listeners by causing an outward-directed focus of attention.

This process is similar to daydreaming. Looking at pictures of your favourite people, place, and natural setting can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. If you find something outside like a rock, stone, or branch that could be used in a craft project, bring it in. Don’t ignore any opportunity to connect to nature. This will make your home a mental health sanctuary.