It is undeniable that being outdoors just makes you feel good. For years research has supported the fact that spending time in nature has numerous health benefits for the mind & body. More recently, the advantages of nature’s healing powers, or nature therapy, has moved to the medical mainstream. It is already well documented that staying active contributes to positive changes in obesity, diabetes, hypertension, & mental illnesses. Nowadays, people are finding quick relief from common ailments just from one dose of the outdoors. There are even doctors that will “prescribe” their patients a visit to a local park with details on the recommended activity, duration, & frequency! With less reported side effects & easy accessibility, this prescription just makes perfect sense to me!

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The list goes on & on but there is another reason to spend more time outdoors with your loved ones: to strengthen relationships. My husband & I have always shared a love for the great outdoors & I can attest our common interest has saved our marriage on many occasions. With all the social pressures & constant demands from our daily lives, it is difficult to find personal time to ourselves. However, as soon as we step outside to walk our dog, hike a local trail, or embark on a weekend road trip, we find ourselves rejuvenated once again.

Here are a few ways nature therapy can help keep the fire alight & strengthen your relationship with your significant other:

1) Make a Real Connection

Not only do we need to take a breath of fresh air every once in a while & disconnect from technology. But being outdoors allows us to make real human connections with people we care about. Nature motivates us to silence our cell phones & engage in meaningful conversations. Most importantly, it provides uninterrupted quality time that encourages us to live in the present.

2) Discover Natural Happiness

The outdoor world is abundant in natural fragrances that release endorphins & enhance our moods. Such chemicals known as terpenes (commonly limonene & linalool) are plentiful in the foliage of plants & tree bark. Studies reveal that exposure to these fresh scents can relieve stress by reducing our cortisol levels & improving heart rate variability. It also allows for a clearer, open mind, preventing negative rumination that can ultimately lead to depression. Much like the effects of aromatherapy, nature’s scents can help you & your partner find an inner calm together.

What’s more, a date with Mother Nature doesn’t cost a lot of money! Aside from small park fees or outdoor gear pertaining to the activity, you won’t expect to argue over high expenses anymore. You will find that happiness can be best attained by living for experiences & not spending on monetary things.

3) Be More Mindful of Each Other

Research shows that our brains are in a more relaxed state & easily achieves a sense of open-mindedness when immersed in nature. Just a stroll through the woods can help us become more aware of our surroundings. The same concept is achieved from mindful meditation & its results can be applied to relationships as well. With these heightened senses, you & your partner can deepen the connection as a couple by acknowledging subtle cues that would otherwise be missed.

4) Set the Romantic Mood

Personally, there is nothing more breathtaking than snow-capped mountains, endless green valleys, or pristine glacial bodies of water. Any backdrop in the wilderness can create deeper emotions & a creative mind. The promise of adventure in such a setting can stimulate positive vibes, while bringing out the youthful side in you. Cancel that couple’s therapy session & just go outdoors!

5) Become a Better Team Player

There are all kinds of challenges when partaking in any outdoor activity with another person, whether it be camping, rock climbing, or even hiking. Think of them as trust-building activities that provide an opportunity to problem-solve & overcome obstacles together. Communication may also be improved at many levels, which is critical to strengthening any bond. Just be sure to prepare yourself as basic survival skills along with patience may be tested. You may end up discovering a different side of your partner you have never encountered before.

6) Create Lasting Memories

Stepping out of the norm & into the wild exposes you to new surroundings that are very rarely forgotten. These unique experiences, whether good or bad, can become special memories to share for a lifetime. It may not have felt memorable at the time you misjudged your path in the woods or were being chased by a swarm of angry mosquitoes. But those awkward moments become great campfire stories to reminisce & laugh about in the future!

7) Look Great Together

Any type of exercise, especially when performed outdoors, can make you look & feel great! Despite the dripping sweat & messy hair, you will be guaranteed a huge boost in confidence. After an active session, you may also notice reduced puffiness & an increase in skin tone, providing you with a healthier glow. That rosy flush along with the sense of achievement is natural & oh so sexy! Who wouldn’t notice that right away but your own partner?

With spring season just around the corner, now is a great time to get outdoors for nature therapy & rekindle the love that has been dormant in hibernation. Engage in a fresh environment to add some variety to your day to day routine. Crawl out of your comfort zone & learn something new about each other. The couple that gets outside together, stays together! ❤️🌲

Please note: The information presented here is not intended to treat, diagnose, or prevent any health issues. Please consult with your physician regarding specific conditions & before beginning any diet or health related regimens.