Northern Star Counseling

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Spend Time in Nature

There continues to be more research about the therapeutic value of being in nature. 20-30 minutes a day outside can enhance your mood and lead to a reduction of stress. Being outdoors increases your inclination to be mindful by focusing on the sound of birds, smell of flowers, scenery of gardens, etc. It also increase the amount of vitamin D and serotonin in your system. Vitamin D may be linked to decreasing symptoms of seasonal depression. Serotonin is one of your brain’s neurotransmitters that are associated with happiness and wellbeing. Schedule your daily does of nature: take the dog for a walk, go to the park, or sit outside of your favorite coffee shop. Let mother nature help you feel more emotionally balanced.