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Nature’s Winter Gift: Boosting Mental Health with Time Outside

By: Jennie Johnson

Winter brings shorter days, colder temperatures, and a natural tendency to spend more time indoors. Yet, as cozy as it might feel to hibernate, stepping outside and embracing nature can profoundly benefit mental health, particularly during the winter months. While it’s easy to associate outdoor activities with warmer weather, research suggests that maintaining a connection with nature year-round, even in brisk winter air, can play a vital role in our well-being.

Research consistently shows that spending time outdoors can alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Studies published by the American Psychological Association highlight that exposure to green spaces improves attention, reduces stress, enhances mood, and even fosters empathy and cooperation. These benefits are partly due to nature’s ability to reduce cortisol levels, a stress hormone. Open spaces also have the capacity to foster mindfulness and a sense of calm.

Winter, with its stark landscapes and quiet stillness, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in ways that foster reflection and tranquility. Kirsten Weir, writing for the American Psychological Association, explains that even a short walk in a park can yield significant psychological benefits. Imagine how much more impactful a serene visit to the wetlands or a nearby green space could be.

Why do outdoor spaces matter even more in the winter? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the winter blues are common struggles for many as daylight decreases and temperatures drop. Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood. Less sunlight during winter months can result in lower serotonin levels, which contributes to these seasonal mood changes. Spending time outdoors, even on overcast days, allows your body to absorb natural light which stimulates serotonin production and improves your mood.


In addition to the physical benefits of sunlight, winter landscapes themselves can be incredibly soothing. The muted colors of dormant vegetation, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, and the sight of birds navigating chilly winds remind us of nature’s resilience and beauty, offering a comforting perspective during challenging times.

Winter walks, birdwatching, or gentle hikes don’t just get you moving, they provide opportunities to experience the healing power of green spaces. Regular outdoor activity increases endorphin production, boosts circulation, and reduces inflammation, all of which contribute to overall well-being. Moreover, as research continues to emerge about the relationship between green spaces and public health, evidence suggests that consistent exposure to natural environments could even reduce long-term healthcare costs by lowering the risk of chronic conditions.


At Rosewood Nature Study Area, visitors discover an oasis of calm. Whether it’s watching the interplay of birds in the reeds or walking the trails surrounded by native grasses, the wetlands offer a much-needed escape from the chaos of daily life. For many in our community, it’s a place to heal, reflect, and recharge, especially during the winter months when such escapes feel particularly vital.


We invite you to experience the transformative power of nature at Rosewood Nature Study Area, located at 6800 Pembroke Dr., Reno, NV. Rosewood is open year-round and offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of wetlands. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about local outdoor events, tips for winter exploration, and the latest news from Rosewood.


Your support is crucial this giving season. Donations to Rosewood Nature Study Area directly contribute to restoration efforts that make these green spaces accessible for everyone. From stabilizing streambanks to planting native vegetation, every dollar you give ensures that our wetlands continue to provide a haven for mental health and connection with nature.


Root your mental health in nature this winter and help preserve our wetlands for generations to come. Together, we can nurture the land that nurtures us all.

 

About the Author

Jennie was our former Wetland Restoration Outreach Coordinator. She is from right here in Reno and went to the University of Nevada, Reno for a degree in Cultural Anthropology. She’s excited to use her marketing background to teach people about the parks and opportunities in their community. She enjoys running, hiking, sunshine and events such as Moms on the Run and the American River Half Marathon.


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Dec 13
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

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Dec 10
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Thank you for your insights and hard work!

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