Have you ever thought about how often you travel the same route, over and over again?
Did you know that people whose commutes take them through natural settings are more likely to demonstrate stronger mental health? A 2018 study by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health found that people who enjoyed a daily commute through mostly natural environments had overall better higher mental health than people who didn’t travel through more scenic landscapes.
And with that… today’s health tip is the practice of taking the scenic route.
Sometimes, focusing on wellness can be as simple as giving yourself a few extra minutes to enjoy the little details of life. But honestly, we get it... “stopping to smell the roses” can seem difficult in our busy schedules. We’re here to help!
As we begin this practice, ask yourself: When’s the last time you made the effort to change up your daily route?
- Consider the route you typically take, and choose a different one. Take a few minutes to explore an area that you haven't been to before while you’re on your way to work, school, or dropping off the kids. Mix it up, do something differently. Be a tourist in your own neighborhood!
- To maximize the experience, minimize distractions. Put your phone away. You may even choose to turn off music or podcasts so you can be totally present in the moment. The less stimulated you are by everything else, the more the environment can capture your attention and leave you feeling refreshed.
- Take a few deep breaths, soak it in, and be in awe at the world around you. Feel the wind. Hear the world outside. It’s nice, isn’t it?
- Let the simple yet profound feeling of being alive and surrounded by beauty shake the dust off your life and inspire you in new ways. Connect with your environment and feel the energy it brings you. You’re feeling better already, aren’t you?
