Living in a world with challenges is nothing new, but the way we that manage them seems to have evolved dramatically. Modern life sees us spending a staggering 90% of our time indoors¹, often glued to screens, forming two-dimensional relationships.
There’s no denying that life is busy, we’re becoming disconnected from the natural world – and our mental health is paying the price. So, how does Mind Over Mountains bridge that gap?
We take you out onto the hills. We walk. We talk. We reconnect.
And it works: 90% of our participants report a lasting boost to their mental wellbeing after a walk with us.
Recounting time spend outdoors in nature, Matt, a Mind Over Mountains wellbeing retreat participant told us,
“I came away believing – and I still hold this belief – that it was the best weekend of my life.”
Another participant, Ruth, came for a wellbeing day walk and told us: “I think the lasting impact is more than you could expect from just one walk.”
But why? How does being out in nature, and feeling connected to the natural world help?
Research² shows that spending time in nature can help to lower cortisol levels, which reduces stress and calms the body and mind. Studies³ also show that being outside and away from screens can improve our mood. And as our mood improves, we start to develop a more positive mindset, happiness levels increase and self esteem improves.
Being outside, immersed in nature, can help us to feel a stronger sense of belonging too. Try this when you’re next outside: take a moment to look up, and really take notice of your surroundings. You’ll realise that you’re part of something much bigger: a natural world that has existed for centuries. Embracing this perspective can really help to bring a sense of clarity, purpose and – importantly – connection. You just need to allow yourself to be present, to notice it, and to enjoy it.
So how do we connect with nature on our wellbeing events?
We walk mindfully. We invite you to open up your senses to truly appreciate all that’s around you. We pause so that you can listen to the sounds of the birds in the trees, the leaves as they sway in the breeze, the beat of your heart pumping in your chest. We remind you to breathe. Just be. Let go of distractions.
Our professional coaches and counsellors walk alongside our participants, offering support along the way, and the opportunity to practise mindfulness skills that can be taken away after the event. Our combination of walking, nature, and mindfulness provides a safe space to talk, and to be listened to. Conversation opens up in a way that isn’t always possible between four walls.
We open up to new experiences, new conversations, and new opportunities for learning and growth. We reconnect with nature, taking that all important first step towards restoring and sustaining mental wellbeing.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MIND OVER MOUNTAINS HERE.
¹ https://www.rewildingbritain.o…
