9 Ways Nature Helps with Healing

The addiction recovery process is best approached when you step out of your normal day-to-day routine. Opening up to new places, experiences, and lessons are all great ways to break free from the norm. Finding peace in nature has an amazing way of grounding us—if you or a family member are struggling with addiction, consider making nature and the outdoors a key component of the recovery process. Just like therapy is a typical weekly occasion during the recovery process, prioritizing nature and going outside should be one of the resources to turn to when seeking help. Getting connected to nature is just one way to grow through the healing process. 

1. Hiking

Regardless of where you are located, chances are there are some scenic places nearby that you could hike through. If you prefer to run, do that! Just don’t make going into nature a chore. By being active in the outdoors you are helping yourself feel alive, because everything around you is!

2. Outdoor Yoga

Yoga is a great activity for those looking for a safe space to discover emotions and release physical tension. Doing yoga outdoors is a fantastic way to take a moment to breathe and appreciate the nature surrounding you. The calmness of the yoga and the tranquility around you is guaranteed to have restorative effects.

3. Paddleboarding/Kayaking

Paddleboarding or kayaking offer a physical challenge while bringing you close to the water—which always seems to have a calming outcome. By challenging yourself to a morning of scenic exercise, the endorphin release will help boost your self esteem.

4. Snowboarding/Skiing 

Even if you have never tried snowboarding or skiing before, trying and learning a new skill is another great way to focus your attention. If you are an avid snowboarder/skier, consider making getting onto the mountain a priority when the conditions are just right!

5. Visiting a Lake or Beach

Water has a great way of reducing stress and providing an overall calm feeling. If you have a lake or beach nearby, consider spending some time relaxing nearby or even renting some sort of boat, kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the benefits of the water by (almost) getting in. Don’t forget to put your toes in the sand and don’t forget that swimming has some awesome benefits as well.

6. Camping

One sure-fire way to connect with the outdoors is to set up a weekend camping trip. To disconnect from our phones and live off of the grill and under the stars has a great way of shifting perspective. By getting away from technology and day to day stressors, you will be able to come back to your routine feeling recharged.

7. Taking a Walk / Visiting a Park

If you live in the middle of a city and just don’t have access to lakes, beaches or outdoor yoga sessions, consider making a walk a part of your daily or nightly ritual. Bring along a friend, or your pup if you have one—company is always great. Learn about some local parks and use walks as a moment to meditate on your day. Don’t forget to take at least five deep breaths.

8. Participating in a 5k/Fitness Challenge

One way to ensure you will stick to your daily routine is by signing up for something like a 5k (or marathon if you’d like). Having a larger fitness activity to prep for is a great way to establish long term goals and make time for a new, and more healthy routine.

9. Meditating outdoors

A sure-fire technique that helps in finding peace in nature is  to take a few moments to truly connect with the current moment and relax. Meditation provides a moment to reflect on your thoughts and to quiet the stressors in your life.

If finding peace in nature seems like something that could help you connect to your true self, consider learning more about Wasatch Treatment Center. Wasatch Crest Center is one of Utah’s premiere live-in drug and alcohol addiction recovery centers, nestled in the beautiful Rocky Mountains—a serene and ideal place to recover from alcohol and substance use disorders. With a focus on experiential therapy, our counselors at Wasatch understand the importance of nature & outdoors in the overall recovery process. If you want even more ideas on how to get outside this summer in Utah, check out this article!