Connect with Nature and Let Your Mind Rest at a Nature Retreat Near You
by Elon Jones *
All eyes are on her as soon as she steps into the arena. The crowd cheers. Cameras flash. But today, there's no waving. No smiles for the camera. Today is the women's Artistic Gymnastic Team Competition, and Team U.S.A. steps to the vault track with the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) herself to lead them.
Simone Biles. The greatest female gymnast of all time performs skills that male gymnasts have difficulty landing with elegance and grace.
But that day in Tokyo, with all eyes watching, something went wrong. She never got to perform the Yurchenko Double Pike everyone wanted to see.
There was nothing wrong with her physical health or her spirit. The disconnect was with her mind.
The whole world started talking about Simone Biles for an entirely different reason, and mental health in America became a national topic of discussion.
From boardrooms to coffee shops and water coolers where workplace gossip is passed, mental health became something to discuss. And all the talk leads to real changes that will push us forward.
We've talked so much that boardroom founders have listened – some of them anyway. While there was a big push to get employees back in the office, many companies still offer hybrid and work-from-home options. But is that enough?
Gaining a Deeper Understanding of the Nature Connection
Brad Lutrell, Founder of Holler Commerce, actually said that he's glad when his team members finish their day early so they can go fishing.
Why?
Because he's found that his team is more productive when they take time for their hobbies, and there's science to back his claims.
When our brain is resting, it's still working through problems. We allow the subconscious to work through things without the pressure to find the answer now. Then, when you return to that problem after a little while, it's almost like it solves itself.
And one Stanford study highlighted the importance of this rest happening outdoors. So we're not just talking about sleep. We're talking about doing something that rests our brains and every sense meaningfully.
So, taking a "mental health break" is just a fancy way of saying, "Go chill, take a nap, come back to it again tomorrow."
Employees are more productive when they rest and recharge in the natural environment. That's why nature retreats are a popular way to achieve some quiet time and practice mindfulness while enshrouded in the beauty of natural landscapes.
Specifically, taking a break before a busy season could be just what you need to charge your battery before the holidays.
Why Does Taking a Few Moments for Connecting with Nature Improve Your Mental Health?
Okay, so why does connecting with nature help human beings? What does interacting with the local environment around us help you feel like a profound experience? And what if I'm not the "outdoorsy type"? Should I give up now and look for other ways to reset my sensory experience?
The simple answer is no. And we'll get to the why in a second. For me, though, getting connected to nature is easy. I adore the great outdoors, relishing the warmth, embracing the humidity, reveling in thunderstorms. Finding solace by a crackling fire when the chill sets in, I'm passionate about activities like hiking, kayaking, camping, and backpacking. I embrace the sweat, the buzzing bugs, and the symphony of wildlife sounds at dusk. Simply put, I cherish it all!
...okay, almost everything. I don't like snakes. But that's another story.
Now I'm well aware that I'm weird. And I certainly understand that my lifestyle is only for some who are used to the comforts of modern society.
The great news for you is that you don't have to do some crazy thousand-hour outdoor challenge to enjoy the biological benefits of being outdoors to achieve the deeper connection with nature you seek.
So even if you're not "outdoorsy," you can do this, I promise.
One study demonstrates that just 120 minutes a week outside improves mental health. It's not an emotional response to nature – though I highly recommend cultivating that as well – it's a biological response.
Direct Benefits of a Connection to Nature On Your Physical and Mental Health
Here's what happens when you step outside…
You breathe easier. Fresh air – free of pollutants and allergens that get trapped indoors – fills your lungs as you take deep breaths. This lets you immediately reduce stress.
Your body absorbs vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for improved energy and immunity. It helps in reducing inflammation and regulating metabolism.
Your brain releases more dopamine. Yep, that's the feel-good chemical, and it's freely available during nature-connecting ventures.
Your immune system wakes up. The outdoors has tons of harmless microbes that help stimulate your immune system so that it stays strong.
You sleep better. Exposure to the sun sets your circadian rhythm, so your body is ready to rest when the sun goes down.
Finally, this next one is the most important for improving your inner peace.
You get relief from an overstimulated lifestyle. Yes, my friend, you and I are overstimulated. It doesn't matter how much vitamin D you get, how much dopamine your brain releases, or how much sleep you get. If we don't let our minds and nervous systems rest, our everyday lives will not improve.
Let me explain.
Connect with Nature: Overcoming a Barrier
We've created neural pathways in our brains that crave stimulation from one single device: our phones.
From this one device, we check our emails, receive texts, get notifications from at least three different apps – more if you're my husband – and, of course, the telemarketers who still use phones to call people. On top of that, your phone is your camera, your T.V., your navigator, and your newsfeed. Modern society trains you to rely on this device.
Have you ever reached for your phone and had it unlocked before you realized you don't need anything on your phone? You were thinking of doing something entirely different, but your brain told you to reach for your phone.
I have.
Those are the neural pathways saying, "No, this is what we're used to. This is what we want."
And while our brains are malleable and can create these neural pathways, our nervous systems don't work well under that much stimulation.
It sends signals to your brain saying it's stressed, and your brain gives the command to make cortisol – the stress hormone.
But you know what helps lower stress levels?
You guessed it. Being outdoors in the natural world.
So here's how to experience nature in a way that lets you connect deeply with the world around us.
How to Become Deeply Connected with Nature
First, an outdoor activity retreat is specific to you. Nature helps everyone, but your concern is getting it to improve your daily life. The purpose is for you to do what you need to recharge. I understand you cannot chuck your phone in a drawer and forget about it for a week.
But remember that you want to limit stimulation as you bring nature into your life so that you can relearn how to connect with the world around you. You can do this solo hike to the mountains or on a trip to L.A.
So, significantly limit connectivity to certain times of the day. In the morning, over breakfast, or during lunch. But not before bed because rest is paramount during your retreat.
Yes, that means you go into your phone and turn off the notifications for all your socials. If someone needs you that bad, they'll text you. Focus your phone use on taking photos.
With that guiding principle in place, let's plan your adventure into the green spaces awaiting you.
Step 1: Set Your Goal
Define what kind of rest you need.
Is the goal to be completely alone so you can process what's in your mind without distraction? Then, an isolated lake cabin with no wifi is perfect for you.
Do you need time to connect with your family? A family campground with onsite activities that you can do together would be great.
Do you need a physical challenge to balance the mental stress you go through at work? A week backpacking trip or canoe trek gives you more of that physical workout.
Here are some questions to help you define your goal:
- What kind of connectivity do I need? Off the grid isn't for everyone, but remember, we're trying to limit stimulation.
- What kind of comfort do I need to rest? Hotel, cabin, glamping, and backpacking are all worthy options to connect with nature.
- What people do I need to rest with? There's a time for a family retreat, a couples retreat, and even a solo retreat.
Allow yourself to express what you need, and follow through.
Moms, that goes double for you. I'm a mom of three overly energetic girls. They're amazing. But sometimes Momma needs a rest.
Step 2: Find Your Happy Place
Some places are more restful than others. Some spark joy. And that all depends on the person.
My husband loves the mountains. I prefer the beach. Others rest better in stimulating surroundings like cities where they can walk everywhere and have all their meals prepared. That's rest, too.
The important part is that it's a place where you feel safe. Where you can rest and spend time outdoors.
So, whether you find a quiet spot in the forest to engage your five senses or flee to your backyard, find what works for you.
Step 3: Pick the People
Some people take more energy than others. It's just a fact. There is a time and place for the crazy three-family coordinated vacation to Disney World. But for your mental health retreat, choose people that fill you up.
You're not being selfish. You're making your needs known to be the best mother, father, friend, and human.
Step 4: Choose Some Activities
There's a fine line between rest and idleness. Idleness is when you get bored and annoyed — and it's also when kids get into trouble. Your body becomes lethargic. You can't sleep because you didn't do anything all day. Nobody wants that.
So, have a few restful activities you can do on your retreat. Here are some examples:
- A walk on the beach
- A short day hikeAn escape room
- Kayaking or paddle boarding
- Fishing
- Restaurants in a local community
- Sailing
- A movie night
- Snorkeling
- Tubing
Choose something you and your companions will enjoy doing together at a level of physical activity that suits your needs.
Step 5: Invite Ease
You're creating a restful setting by choosing where you go, who you bring, and what you decide to do. The last thing to make it all work is you.
You have to be willing to relax.
A nature-connectedness journey is about more than just getting things done or seeing all the sights. It's about learning to be present and enjoy what's around you. Notice things. Feel connected with the earth. Please keep your eyes peeled for the next wonderful way nature will reveal itself to you.
Now that you've got an idea of what appeals to you, here's some inspiration.
Ways to Connect with Nature at a Nature Retreat Near You
In my experience, there are nature retreats anywhere and everywhere. From Maimi to L.A., you can always find a nature retreat near you. Here are some of my favorites, then I'll show you where you can find more in your area.
AutoCamp: Wake Up in America's Greatest Landscapes
For a relaxing retreat that allows you to embrace a mid-century modern design of bringing the outdoors in, look no further than AutoCamp.
Their locations include luxury Airstreams surrounded by America's most iconic landscapes. Think Yosemite, Cape Cod, Moab, Joshua Tree, Sequoia, and more.
Along with your outdoor seating area at your luxury Airstream, many locations offer onsite dining and common areas for socializing.
You can use this as your base camp as you further explore the surroundings or stake a claim on a sit-spot by the fire and enjoy.
- Locations: Yosemite, Catskills, Cape Cod, Moab, Joshua Tree, Sequoia, Asheville, Hill Country, Russian River, and Zion.
- Activities: Day hikes, fishing, morning yoga, socializing around the campfire.
- Amenities: Onsite dining, fully-equipped Airstream, open fire pits, s'mores kits, general store
- Good for: Relaxing in natural surroundings with high-end amenities.
Field Station: Stay and Play in the Great Outdoors
You've needed to get away from the humdrum to a real adventure. You want something new and exciting, but you need to get equipment. Field Station: Moab is a brand-new hotel geared toward adventurers like you.
With outdoor equipment and onsite guided tours, it's easy to try something new under the guidance of a professional.
Field Station is for those who crave active, outdoor experiences like mountain biking, whitewater rafting, canyoneering, and rock climbing to energize themselves.
- Locations: Moab, UT
- Activities: Whitewater rafting, canyoneering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking
- Amenities: Outdoor gear, coffee shop, campervan parking, guided tours
- Good for: Adventurers ready for some excitement
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts
Work-life balance is a constant juggling act of working so your family can eat and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
If you need time to connect with your kids, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Parks has everything you need onsite and (mostly) included in your stay. Depending on the location, there are splash parks, mini golf, pedal carts, crafts and activities for the kids, hiking trails, and more.
You'll find plenty of ways to connect with what matters most in your life.
- Locations: Over 75 locations. Find the one nearest you here.
- Activities: Water attractions, hiking trails, peddle carts, mini golf, and more.
- Amenities: General store, ice cream shop, daily craft activities, character shows, live music
- Good for: Families looking to bond
State Parks
I confess state parks are my go-to getaways. There's always one near me. Most have the option of camping or cabins. And they're economical.
Let's face it: bringing nature into your life for your mental well-being doesn't always conform to a schedule, and sometimes you need last-minute accommodations.
State parks are easy to get to, not usually overcrowded, economical, and surrounded by nature. When you need to get grounded again, spending time here may be the only thing you need.
- Locations: Check your state!
- Activities: Camping, nature trails, fishing (with license), bird watching, depending on the park.
- Amenities: Electric and running water.
- Good for: A quick getaway to recharge yourself in nature. No frills. No fuss.
Your Mental Health Matters
Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, you need space to rest your mind. Resting isn't lazy. Resting allows your subconscious to work through problems and appreciate the present moment.
So before the holidays get all crazy, take time out for your own mental and physical health.
And just as rest is self-care for your mind, cleanliness is self-care for your body. That's why BODDI created the on-the-go, all-natural, no-water cleanser. So wherever your next retreat is, you can be clean with BODDI.
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* Elon is a freelance SEO copywriter for outdoor brands. She's a Venturing Silver Award Recipient who grew up in Tampa, FL. Now, she lives the camping lifestyle in a travel trailer with her husband and three girls. She believes the world would be better if we all got outside more. You can learn more about her at ElonJones.com.