For some reason, the movie Forrest Gump always comes to me when I'm feeling anxious. I know that in the film Tom Hanks always ran in times of trouble, however walking is good enough for me. When you are anxious, it is often due to a buildup of adrenaline. Exercise can sure help use up that extra adrenaline and excess energy.
Now you wouldn’t believe me if I told you, but I could run like the wind blows. From that day on, if I was goin’ somewhere, I was runnin’! – Forrest
Getting outdoors into the fresh air can significantly improve our health and emotional wellbeing. There is now significant research looking at how green spaces and time in nature can help alleviate anxiety, stress and depression. In fact, interacting with nature can lower blood pressure and reduce cortisol levels, thus reducing the body's flight-or-fight response.
These benefits are believed to be due to a range of factors, including the sounds, smells and visual stimuli that nature provides us. Having something pleasant to focus on like the trees and flowers helps the mind to relax. The sounds of birds chirping or children laughing can also help to distract your thoughts from worry and negative thinking patterns.
It almost seems too simple, but stepping out into nature can help you reduce your feelings of anxiety and improve your state of mind almost immediately.
With love
Rose
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