Spend time in nature — it’s something we often forget in the rush of daily life. Vikram, 40, a corporate trainer in Delhi, knew all about busy schedules. His daily routine? Wake up, rush through client calls, work on weekends, and somehow keep smiling through it all.
But lately, he was feeling off.
Tired all the time. Sleep wasn’t helping. Work felt dull. Even weekends didn’t feel like a break anymore.
Then, while visiting his parents in Dehradun, something simple happened.
He went for a walk.
Just a short one — no phone, no music, no fitness watch. Just him and a quiet trail with trees on both sides.
It lasted 25 minutes. But something clicked.
He didn’t feel tired. He felt calm. Lighter. More present.
For the first time in weeks, he wasn’t thinking about emails or deadlines.
Since then, Vikram’s made it a habit. Every evening, he takes time out to walk in a nearby park — even back in Delhi.
And guess what? He sleeps better. He feels less stressed. And he’s back to enjoying his work again.
All it took was a walk in nature.
Why Nature is the Most Powerful (and Free) Wellness Tool
In the middle of India’s urban chaos—honking autos, packed trains, late-night screen time—nature offers something we rarely get: stillness.
Here’s what spending time in nature really does:
🌳 Reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels
💓 Improves heart health and lowers blood pressure
🧠 Boosts focus and mental clarity (yes, even after just 20 minutes)
😌 Reduces anxiety and mild depression
🌞 Increases vitamin D naturally
🛌 Improves sleep quality
🧘 Boosts emotional resilience and creativity
Studies from around the world—and even from India—show the mind-body connection becomes stronger with regular outdoor exposure.
Rethink the Idea of Nature
Most people think they need to escape to the Himalayas or Goa to connect with nature. That’s a myth.
Nature is wherever you find sunlight, air, trees, or sky.
Yes, even in your city. Even on your terrace.
Reframing your idea of “how to spend time in nature” is the first step.
The Mindset Shift: Nature is Not a Luxury, It’s a Need
Think about it: You wouldn’t skip water or food. Then why skip what your mind and body crave instinctively—fresh air, sunlight, and green surroundings?
We’ve grown up thinking that spending time in nature is a vacation activity or a retirement hobby.
But it’s actually essential—especially for working professionals.
Reframe it like this:
- From “I don’t have time” → to → “I make time because it heals me”
- From “Nature is far away” → to → “Nature is in my local park, balcony, or even terrace garden”
- From “It’s not productive” → to → “It boosts my productivity”
Simple Habits That Bring Nature Back Into Your Life
Here’s how you can start — even with a 9-to-6 job and weekend chores:
1. Morning Nature Ritual
Instead of checking your phone first thing, take your morning chai to the balcony, terrace, or a nearby park. Just observe. Listen. Breathe.
2. Lunch Break Walks
Even in the busiest cities, trees line many lanes. Use a part of your lunch hour to take a short walk outdoors. Leave your phone behind.
3. Build a Green Corner at Home
Start a small garden — even 3-4 potted plants on a windowsill can bring visual calm. Caring for them becomes meditative.
4. Weekend Nature Dates
Plan one outing per weekend to a lake, hill, or forested area near your city. Maharashtra alone has dozens of nature spots 1–2 hours away.
5. Practice Outdoor Mindfulness
Sit under a tree. Remove your shoes. Close your eyes. Feel the earth. Listen to birds. This stillness is more rejuvenating than you imagine.
6. Involve Your Family
Make nature a family habit. Picnics, planting trees together, or nature clean-ups build bonding and lasting memories.
Conclusion: Nature Is Not a Trip. It’s a Return.
If life feels overwhelming, unfocused, or flat — it may not be another self-help video you need. It could just be a walk among trees.
Nature isn’t just a destination. It’s where clarity, energy, and emotional balance reside.
Let’s stop running away from life’s chaos and instead start walking into nature’s calm.
FAQs
Q1. I live in a metro city. Where do I find nature nearby?
Look for parks, botanical gardens, riverfronts, or even tree-lined streets. Early mornings offer a quieter experience.
Q2. I don’t have time. How do I fit nature into my schedule?
Start with 15 minutes in the morning or during lunch breaks. It adds up.
Q3. What if the weather is bad?
Use covered spaces like verandahs or large balconies. Even viewing greenery from your window helps.
Q4. Is indoor gardening helpful too?
Absolutely. Studies show indoor plants improve air quality and reduce stress.
Q5. How does nature improve productivity?
It resets mental fatigue, sharpens concentration, and fosters creativity.
Q6. Can nature help with anxiety or burnout?
Yes, nature exposure is a scientifically proven stress reducer and emotional regulator.
Q7. How often should I go into nature?
Aim for short daily exposure and a longer outing weekly. Consistency matters more than duration.
Q8. Is this relevant only for adults?
No. Children benefit even more from outdoor time — better focus, mood, and immunity.
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published here https://thelifetrackr.com/how-to-spend-time-in-nature-simple-habits-that-change-everything/ by @Kairav and @krutika