During this time of physical distancing, it’s very easy to get caught on the couch, watching TV. Cabin fever is the feeling of restlessness at being stuck in the same place for too long – and a reality for many people today. However, it is very beneficial to your health to get fresh air when you are able. Studies have shown that getting outside into nature can reduce ailments like anxiety, depression and tension headaches, and overall improve your well-being, even if it’s only for a short period of time each day.
As of March 20, public health officials in Canada recommended physical distancing and self-isolation to reduce and stop the spread of COVID-19. Several parks and large gathering places have been closed in order to discourage large numbers of people from assembling for the time being. However, this does not necessarily mean you must be confined to your house at all times.
If you live near a forested area where you can maintain distancing from others, simply go for a walk. “Forest bathing” is known in Japan as a type of therapy and meditation practice to reduce anxiety and lower blood pressure (for more information on meditation, click here). This is a great option for many Canadians, as we have about 10 hectares of forest per person (Nature Canada)! This is an easy activity for people of all ages to take part in.
If you have a balcony or yard at your home, try to spend time out there. You don’t have to worry about being isolated from other people that way, and you can do activities that you normally may not have time for. Gardening, painting or drawing outside, reading, and listening to a podcast or music are all ideas of relaxing things to do while outside.
As a last resort, studies show that even looking at a picture of nature can be beneficial to our mental health. As low as five minutes per day spent looking at a picture of green space can boost your mood!
Adapted from https://naturecanada.ca/news/blog/quarantine-cabin-fever-how-getting-into-nature-can-help/ & https://advances.sciencemag.org/content/5/7/eaax0903
