How 7 Different Cultures Use Nature to Support Mental Health

While juggling work, family, and the countless demands of daily life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and stretched thin. As busy women, we often find ourselves searching for ways to support our mental health, craving a sense of peace amidst the chaos. One powerful way to reconnect with ourselves is through nature—a resource many cultures worldwide have long recognized for its healing and restorative qualities. The nature-mental health connection is real—and incredibly impactful. Exposure to nature (even just more green space in your city) can lower blood pressure, boost positive emotions, and improve poor mental health.

From Japan’s serene practice of Shinrin-Yoku to the Scandinavian embrace of Friluftsliv, let’s explore how different cultures use nature to nurture mental well-being. Join us on a journey across the globe as we uncover these practices. We hope these cultural practices inspire you to weave the natural world into a self-care routine that supports your own mental health. After all, exposure to nature benefits us all.

7 Cultural Practices That Support Mental Health with Immersion in Nature

Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing)—Japan

Shinrin-Yoku, or forest bathing, is a Japanese practice that invites individuals to immerse themselves fully in the natural environment of a forest. Unlike hiking or vigorous outdoor activities, Shinrin-Yoku is about slowing down, breathing deeply, and being present in the forest. Originating in Japan during the 1980s as a response to the stress of modern urban life, this practice has become deeply embedded in Japanese culture as a way to reconnect with nature and find inner peace.

Mental Health Benefits

The mental health benefits of Shinrin-Yoku are well-documented and scientifically supported. Research shows that spending time in a forest setting can significantly reduce stress levels, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.

The practice of Shinrin-Yoku allows the mind to rest, reducing the production of stress hormones and promoting a sense of calm. In Japan, it’s not uncommon for healthcare professionals to prescribe forest bathing as a natural remedy for anxiety, depression, and burnout, recognizing the profound impact that nature can have on mental well-being.

Modern Adaptations

While Shinrin-Yoku began in Japan, its calming and restorative qualities have resonated with people worldwide, leading to its adoption in various cultures. Today, many countries have embraced the concept of forest bathing, adapting it to their local environments and lifestyles.

Whether in the dense forests of Japan, the serene woodlands of Scandinavia, or even green space in North American cities, people are discovering the simple yet profound benefits of pausing to breathe in nature. For busy women balancing the demands of work and family, incorporating elements of Shinrin-Yoku into daily life—even if it’s just a walk in a nearby park—can offer a much-needed mental reset.

Friluftsliv (Open-Air Living)—Scandinavia

Friluftsliv, which translates to “open-air living,” is more than just a practice—it’s a way of life in Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. This philosophy encourages spending time outdoors, regardless of the weather, to connect with nature and embrace the natural world.

In Scandinavian culture, Friluftsliv is deeply ingrained, reflecting a belief that regular outdoor activity is essential for physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s a hike through the forest, a day of skiing, or simply a walk by the sea, Friluftsliv emphasizes the importance of being in nature as a path to a balanced and fulfilling life.

Mental Health Impact

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Susanne Olsen Byre (@susannebyre)

The mental health benefits of Friluftsliv are profound. Engaging in outdoor activities can lead to increased happiness, reduced anxiety, and a greater sense of freedom. The practice of Friluftsliv helps individuals to disconnect from the stressors of daily life and reconnect with the natural rhythms of the environment.

Scandinavians also adapt their activities to the changing seasons, embracing the long, bright days of summer as well as the cold, dark days of winter, each offering its own unique opportunities for mental rejuvenation.

Integrating Friluftsliv Into Your Own Life

Friluftsliv is seamlessly integrated into daily life in Scandinavia, even on workdays and during family activities. For many, it’s not just a weekend pursuit but a daily ritual—walking or cycling to work, taking breaks outside, or planning family outings in nature.

This commitment to outdoor living supports mental health by ensuring regular contact with nature, which is seen as a vital part of maintaining overall well-being. For busy women, incorporating elements of Friluftsliv into daily routines, even in small ways, can offer a refreshing escape from the pressures of work and family life.

Ayurveda and Nature—India

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by National Ayurvedic Medical Association (@ayurveda_nama)

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, places great emphasis on harmony between the body, mind, and nature. Rooted in the belief that our health is intricately connected to the natural world, Ayurveda uses the elements of nature—earth, water, fire, air, and ether—to create balance within the body. This holistic approach involves seasonal routines, dietary practices, and the use of natural environments and herbs to promote physical and mental well-being.

Mental Health Applications

In Ayurveda, nature is crucial in balancing the mind and supporting mental health. Practices such as meditating in nature, using plant-based remedies, and following seasonal routines are designed to align the body’s rhythms with the natural world.

For example, spending time in green spaces, breathing in fresh air, and consuming seasonal, locally grown foods are all encouraged to maintain mental clarity and emotional stability. These practices help individuals stay grounded and connected, which is especially beneficial for those managing the stresses of modern life.

Holistic Approach

Ayurveda’s approach to mental health is holistic, viewing the mind as interconnected with the body and spirit. This means that mental well-being is not treated in isolation but as part of overall health.

For busy women, embracing Ayurvedic principles can offer a path to balanced living, where mental health is supported by natural, sustainable practices that nourish both the body and soul. By integrating Ayurveda (and nature exposure) into daily life, one can find a deeper sense of peace and harmony amidst the demands of work and family.

Alpine Pasture Therapy—Switzerland

Alpine Pasture Therapy is a Swiss tradition that involves spending time in high-altitude pastures to rejuvenate both the body and mind. Historically, this practice was rooted in the belief that the pure air, natural beauty, and tranquility of the Alps could restore health and vitality. The tradition has continued into modern times, where it’s celebrated as a way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in its most pristine form.

Mental Health Benefits

The mental health benefits of Alpine Pasture Therapy are significant, with reduced stress, improved respiratory health, and a profound sense of peace being among the most notable. The high-altitude environment, with its fresh, clean air and breathtaking views, provides an ideal setting for mental clarity and relaxation. Many wellness retreats in Switzerland now incorporate Alpine Pasture Therapy into their programs, recognizing its powerful effects on mental and emotional well-being.

Incorporate Nature with Seasonal Retreats

Engaging in seasonal retreats to the Alps is a common practice in Switzerland, where people seek the therapeutic effects of the mountain environment. These retreats offer a chance to step away from the stresses of daily life and immerse oneself in the healing power of nature.

For busy women, retreating into nature, even just for a weekend, can be a vital way to recharge, banish negative emotions, and restore mental balance. The Alps remind us of the importance of finding stillness and peace in our fast-paced lives.

Passeggiata—Italy

Passeggiata, a beloved Italian tradition, is the practice of taking a leisurely evening walk, often through natural or urban green spaces. This daily ritual is more than just exercise—it’s a social and cultural practice that allows people to unwind, connect with their community, and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. In Italy, Passeggiata is a cherished part of life, reflecting the Italian emphasis on balance, relaxation, and the simple pleasures of daily living.

Mental Health Benefits

The mental health benefits of Passeggiata are significant. This daily walk helps reduce stress, encourages social interaction, and promotes physical activity, all of which contribute to overall well-being.

By taking time to slow down and enjoy the moment, individuals can clear their minds and reconnect with themselves and their environment. Passeggiata serves as a reminder that incorporating small, mindful activities into daily life can have a profound impact on mental health.

Incorporation into Daily Life

Passeggiata is seamlessly integrated into daily life in Italy, often becoming a family affair where everyone joins in. This ritual helps create a balanced lifestyle, offering a natural pause in the day to reflect, relax, and enjoy the company of others.

For busy women, adopting a similar practice—whether it’s a walk after dinner or a moment of quiet reflection in a nearby park—can provide a much-needed opportunity to recharge and find peace amidst a hectic schedule.

Korean “Healing Forests”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jeju Tourism Organization (@visitjeju.en)

In South Korea, the concept of “Healing Forests” has gained popularity as a government-supported initiative to promote public health. These specially designated forest areas are used for mental and physical healing, offering a natural escape from the stress of urban life. The idea is to immerse oneself in the tranquility of the forest, where the sights, sounds, and smells of nature work together to restore balance and well-being.

Therapeutic Activities

Healing Forests in Korea offer a variety of therapeutic activities designed to enhance mental and physical health. These include guided meditation sessions, mindful forest walks, and aromatherapy using natural forest elements.

These activities are designed to engage the senses, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm and relaxation. The forest environment itself acts as a natural healer, helping individuals reconnect with their inner selves and the natural world.

Mental Health Outcomes

The mental health outcomes associated with spending time in Korea’s Healing Forests are impressive. Participants often report reduced stress levels, improved mood, and enhanced concentration.

The practice of forest therapy in these Healing Forests provides a powerful antidote to the pressures of modern life, offering a space where people can find peace, rejuvenation, and mental clarity. For busy women, taking time to visit a local green space or park can offer similar benefits, helping to alleviate stress and improve overall well-being.

Waldkindergartens (Forest Kindergartens)—Germany

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Waldkindergarten Muckestutz (@waldkindergarten.muckestutz)

Waldkindergartens, or Forest Kindergartens, are a unique German educational model where young children spend their days learning in natural outdoor environments. These kindergartens emphasize nature-based learning, where children explore, play, and learn in the forest, developing a deep connection with the natural world from an early age. This approach fosters a sense of curiosity, independence, and respect for nature.

Mental Health and Developmental Benefits

The mental health and developmental benefits of Waldkindergartens are significant. Children who attend these kindergartens often show reduced anxiety, enhanced creativity, and improved social skills.

Being outdoors in a natural setting supports not only physical health but also emotional and cognitive development. The freedom to explore and engage with nature helps children build resilience and confidence, setting a strong foundation for lifelong well-being.

Influence on Global Education

The Waldkindergarten model has inspired similar outdoor education programs worldwide, promoting the mental well-being of children globally. By incorporating nature into early childhood education, these programs help children develop a love for the outdoors and an appreciation for the natural world.

For parents, supporting their children’s connection with nature through outdoor activities can have lasting positive effects on their mental and emotional health, fostering a generation that values and protects the environment.

Final Thoughts on Supporting Mental Health Through Nature Exposure

From the serene practice of Shinrin-Yoku in Japan to the communal traditions of Passeggiata in Italy, we’ve explored how different cultures around the world harness the healing power of nature to support mental health. Each practice offers a unique perspective.

As we’ve seen, integrating nature into daily life doesn’t require grand gestures—sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a walk in the park, pausing to breathe in the fresh air, or spending a few moments in the garden. By drawing inspiration from these global practices, you can find meaningful ways to bring the calming, restorative effects of nature into your own routine, even in the midst of a busy life.

Nature’s universal benefits for mental health remind us of the importance of protecting and preserving our natural environments. As we incorporate these practices into our lives, let’s also commit to nurturing the world around us, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the healing power of nature. After all, our connection to nature is not just about our well-being—it’s about sustaining the planet that sustains us.