That’s it. That’s the title.
Short and succinct. Like the summers here in the UK. It feels like every year it’s getting shorter and shorter :(. A few days of glorious mornings with gentle sun-kissed rays kissing our faces and having us wake up like we’re the main character in a ‘feel-good’ movie when she’s in her happiness, new-girl arc. Now throw in all your work hours that has you cooped over a computer, or hunchbacked in staff meetings that “could have been an email”- really, we’re reduced to a few hours of the magical Vitamin D rays! (I hope I’ve painted a nice picture for you all and not triggered anybody’s hayfever/allergies?!)
As the seasons change though and the sun makes an appearance much less (albeit still radiant and beautiful when she does appear- especially with the hues in the scenery changing from vibrant greens to fiery tones, and the air being more crisp)- it becomes more of a challenge to enjoy every moment of it.
I’ve always been an absolute sucker for the elements, rain or shine, give me all of it. But I never understood the healing nature of it until I had a depressive low last year. Now, I’ve been living with depression for several years now and can recognise triggers, mood management, and how to pick myself up (with the support of others) but this bout felt different. It was the very first time I was able to predict it would be coming at least a month in advance. You see, I was coming up to the final deadline of my Masters, and also the beginning of my career change. The transition in a career change can last months/years but the initial drop can be a huge challenge to. For the first time ever, there was no ‘back to school September vibes’ for me (I had been in education all my life, first as a student, then straight away as a teacher). I felt that I would dip as soon as my final deadline was submitted (Sept 5th) and lo and behold, by the time the end of September came around, my old friend depression came and enveloped me like my big black shawl, as comforting as ever (sounds counter-intuitive I know, but go with me- it’s an analogy I worked out in therapy).
Anyway, what’s the link between this episode and the sun I hear you say? Well, this predicted episode of the old d-word did it’s usual stages. The first of becoming stoic, shutting off from the world, and barely wanting to leave the house. But I recognise the patterns well now, almost like it’s a life cycle that it has to endure to completion. The new thing about this particular cycle though was the carnal desire to be outdoors. Not just any outdoors, but the kind where the wind is fiercely in your face, such that your eyes squint. The kind where I can hear waves crashing and birds chirping, but mostly the wind rushing past my ears like they’re at war with each other. I remember explaining this to my friend who organised a day trip to the White Cliffs of Dover.
Honestly, it was like she had completely taken the imprint of what my fatigued body was craving and brought it to life because it was everything my body (and soul) needed. We packed up a picnic for the day and some reading books, found a nice hill to sit on, and just took in the surroundings. I prayed, napped, read, and ate. We spent the majority of the day in silence and that was perfect (find someone who understands that you don’t need to be fixed, but it’s okay to just be accompanied if it makes them feel useful, and you recognise that it’s good for you too). By the time the drive back home came, it was a nice sunset with lo-fi music playing and a few words being exchanged here and there. I returned feeling like I had fast-tracked this round because I bounced back fairly soon after.
Now I’m not saying that the White Cliffs of Dover are some magic pill for mental health but being outdoors certainly helps. I’m currently doing a lot of research and work around embodiment of trauma and grounding yourself in your physical senses facilitates a ‘return’ to the body- something which trauma survivors find impactful in their healing journeys. Is there any wonder why we flock outdoors to feel the heat rays of the sun in the summer? (And for the more Romantic of us, run outdoors when there’s torrential rain as if the skies are washing away all our cares?).
Is there any wonder why grounding exercises and mindfulness help us return to a sense of ourselves, alleviate anxiety, by reconnecting us with nature? If you haven’t yet experienced any of these interventions (whether psychological, medical, religious- argue amongst yourselves if you want to, but I hold the value that if it works, it works- focus on this fact, rather than what brought you there), then I invite you to simply be more mindful as you go outside. This summer, I had a lot of heavy ‘work from home’ days and sadly, with meetings dotted around the day- I couldn’t be too far from the Wi-Fi hub and laptop, so I’d make sure to take my breaks outside; and any work that could be mobile, I’d take it with me. To ensure the division of work and mindful outdoor basking, I used the 5 sense to tune back into myself.
- What shapes could I see the clouds making?
- What sounds can I hear?
- What does the grass feel like under my feet?
- What flavours can I taste in this iced latte?
- What smells are in the air?
Working in the sunshine can have various healing effects on both your physical and mental well-being:
Mind
- Mood Enhancement: Sunlight triggers the release of serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone. This can lead to an improved mood, reduced feelings of stress, and an overall sense of well-being.
- Increased Energy and Alertness: Exposure to natural light can help regulate your body’s internal clock, boosting energy levels and enhancing alertness and focus.
- Stress Reduction: Being in a sunny environment can help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. This can lead to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.
- Enhanced Productivity: Natural light can positively impact your cognitive function, leading to improved concentration, creativity, and productivity.
- Positive Psychological Effects: Sunlight can have positive effects on your mental health, including reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Body
- Vitamin D Production: Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining strong bones, a healthy immune system, and overall health.
- Improved Sleep Patterns: Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep quality and a more balanced circadian rhythm.
- Pain Relief: Sunlight exposure has been linked to the release of endorphins, which can act as natural pain relievers and reduce discomfort.
- Visual Comfort: Natural light is generally easier on the eyes compared to artificial lighting, reducing eye strain and fatigue.
- Physical Activity: Working outdoors in the sunshine can encourage you to move more, whether it’s walking, stretching, or engaging in other light physical activities.
Soul
- Relaxation and Mindfulness: Working in the sunshine provides an opportunity to step away from indoor environments and connect with nature. This can promote relaxation, mindfulness, and stress reduction.
- Enhanced Creativity: Sunlit environments can boost your creativity by providing a fresh and inspiring setting for your work.
- Increased Socialising: Spending time outdoors in the sun can encourage you to engage in activities like picnics or healthy outdoor meals, which often can include games, or outings to the beach.
- Connection with Nature: Being in the sunshine and surrounded by natural elements fosters a sense of connection with the environment, promoting a sense of harmony and well-being.
It’s important to balance sun exposure to avoid overexposure and potential harm to your skin. Remember to wear sunscreen, protect your eyes, and take breaks in the shade when needed. So my friends, take your pick, rain, sun, snow, or storm- we have a real range on offer here in the UK- let’s reconnect our bodies with nature by starting with just feeling what it can offer is. That said, I’m gonna stop rambling now and take my hike in the Castleton village of the Peak District! Definitely need to hone my map-reading skills. If I’m not back in another week with another blog, send a search party out- I might be basking somewhere on a high peak, and not out of choice!
I totally get this, is it weird I look forward to taking the kids to school by walking. It’s the first thing I wake up and wonder and hope it’s not torrential rain otherwise I won’t be able to walk it. It just helps with my mood, how I feel and just starts me off well for the day ahead
My favourite type of walks are when the suns out and there’s that crispy cold air which hits your face! Perfect Autumn/winter walks!
YESSSSS- not weird at all! There’s a great blessing about those morning walks!
Mmm I could relate to the black shawl. Dover, books, prayer, naps and some simple food. What more can a soul ask for. Insightful read. Thankyou for sharing.
Glad you found it insightful! Would love to know if you have any nature healing sessions planned as the seasons change!