I didn’t care much for spring growing up. Living in Phoenix, springtime lasts about a month in February/March, then it becomes too hot for most outdoor activities.
Since living in Austin, I’ve grown extremely fond of spring - it’s one of the most beautiful times here! Everything is green, growing, and alive. Wildflowers bloom and I personally enjoy the rainy days, if not more than the sunny ones.
The benefits of nature and mental health is a widely popular topic - There are so many reasons for that.
From increased cognitive focus, motivation, concentration, and energy, to decreased levels in anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms, nature and humans go hand in hand.
Remember the amygdala?
This is the part of the brain associated with the “fear” response. This may contribute to anxiety when not regulated, but important for the brain to keep you safe and alert. It’s also part of processing emotions, as it is located in the limbic system, which is home to emotional regulation, and processing memories.
“A study using functional neuroimaging (fMRI) found lower activation of the brain structure that signals fear and threat (the amygdala) after a 60-minute walk in a natural environment compared to an urban environment.”
- Your brain on nature: how exposure to natural environments heals, calms and cures
Prefrontal Cortex
This is generally associated with the “New Brain”, contributing to decision making and more complex thought processes.
“Another fMRI study found decreased blood flow in the prefrontal cortex, which correlated with self-reports of decreased “rumination,” after a 90-minute nature walk compared with an urban walk.”
- Your brain on nature: how exposure to natural environments heals, calms and cures
It’s good to give your pre-frontal cortex a well deserved break, and to feel restored after.
Ways to Connect with Nature to Improve Brain Health
Before Austin gets too hot, give back to the environment while giving back to yourself.
1. Volunteer
Many non-profit companies rely on volunteers to keep up with the everyday workload - from planting, to upkeep of trails, and more. Here are some amazing companies in ATX that I recommend checking out:
(Bonus: Connecting with others helps broaden your community)
Festival Food Beach Forest
This public space is a food forest - Stop by at any time and help yourself to fresh herbs, fruits, and more!
Volunteer here on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9am-12pm, or some Saturdays to take care of this public garden and meet new people.
The Trail Conservancy
The Ann and Roy Butler Trail is a wonderful spot; not only to volunteer, but for bird watching hikes, live music, and different events. Earth Day is coming up, so check out their website on events coming up!
2. Nature Walks
Over the 3 1/2 years of living in ATX, here are some of my favorite outdoor spots. Grab a friend or find solitude in one of these amazing places.
St. Edwards Park and Trail
This place is magical! Located in North West Austin, it has different trails depending on what you’re looking for. It runs along a creek and has a serene bit of quietness to it that makes it one of my favorite spots in Austin.
Barton Springs/Zilker Park
I have to add this one here - a great spot if you’re looking for a beautiful place to swim, or to hit up the Botanical Garden while you’re at it. I also enjoy visiting the UMLAUF Sculpture Garden (free admission).
Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
There is an area to stroll and bird watch, and a (required) paid tour to walk down to a gorgeous cave and serene creek. There are some events including stargazing nights & meditation walks if you’re looking for a more individual event.
3. Schedule a private outdoor session with me
Pilates based fitness exercises that focus on mobility, strength, balance, and cardio curated to your specific goals/needs.
Private sessions are great for those who want to focus on more specifics that can be overlooked when taking group classes. I enjoy giving specific attention to form and movement, while enjoying the outdoors.
Fill out this form to get started! (I also offer duets if you’d like to bring a friend).
4. Outdoor sports
Paddle boarding, kayaking, or swimming is always a great way to get your body moving AND be outdoors. It’s a win win.
4. Read, draw, or create outside
What is your creative outlet of choice? Find a nice spot outside, and let your meditative experience pull you in.
How Often Should I Be Outside?
“For those who are able to be outside, there is good evidence that 30 minutes a week is helpful and that a total of 120 minutes a week is consistently associated with higher levels of physical health and self-reported well-being.”
- Your brain on nature: how exposure to natural environments heals, calms and cures
What is your favorite thing to do outside? What is your favorite nature spot? Share the wealth!
Thank you for being a part of this community, and for your interest in the brain and movement. If you find this helpful or interesting, sharing goes a long way.
Until Next Time -L
In Austin I enjoyed walking the Nature Conservancy trail and Zilker Botanical Gardens plus Umlauf Sculpture Garden was a nice spot to enjoy art and nature intertwined. I think my favorite hikes are in Oregon though, and I’m thinking of the Cape Lookout Trail for example. Thank you for the reminder and extra push to spend time outdoors; understanding the effects of being outdoors has on the health of our brain reminds me to go outside and hike… some great info here :)