Staying Connected to Nature: Back to School Edition
There is no doubt that going back to school can be a tricky time of year. Trading long days of freedom and fun for long nights of homework and studying can send anyone into a panic. We know academic stress, especially among college-aged students, can not only lead to poor academic outcomes but also decrease one’s overall wellbeing and lead to anxiety and depressive symptoms (Deng et al., 2022). Taking care of oneself throughout the semester is key in reducing academic stress and ensuring that one’s overall health and wellbeing is in the best state possible for success in the new school year.
One way to take care of yourself throughout the school year is to get outside. While walking between classes, taking a lunch break outside, and using active transportation to get to and from school are all great, passive ways, to increase time spent outside, intentionally spending time outdoors and connecting to nature is even more beneficial for your health and wellbeing.
Whether it’s going for a walk with a friend in a park, taking a drive up the canyon after class for an evening picnic, or spending your weekends walking around Red Butte Gardens, there are so many opportunities to connect with nature in and around Salt Lake City. Research shows that as little as 10 minutes spent outside can lead to short-term mental health benefits (Schaefer et al., 2024).
Aside from mental health benefits, taking study breaks outside and spending time outside, in general, can also improve your academic success. Recent studies show that spending time outside can improve executive control (the brain’s CEO, overseeing and directing cognitive functions to help us navigate daily tasks and challenges effectively) (McDonnell and Strayer, 2024), working memory (Schertz et al., 2019), and can reduce symptoms of ADHD (Di Carmine and Berto, 2020).
Integrating nature into your routine can be easier than you might think. Taking daily, mindful, walks in nature, can enhance mindfulness and help you appreciate the natural beauty around you. Even though walking on campus in between classes can be considered passive nature engagement, shifting your mindset to be more aware of your surroundings can increase the benefits you experience. Put your phone away, take your ear buds out, take the long way to class when you have the time, and really focus on noticing the world around you. Our campus is home to many species of trees and native plants, which provide benefits to both our campus community and the broader environment.
Outdoor study sessions can be another great way to combine your need for studying with the benefits of being outside. When the weather permits, take your books and laptop to a nearby park or even your backyard. A change in environment can boost creativity and concentration, making your study time more productive and even enjoyable.
Additionally, consider joining outdoor clubs or groups. The University of Utah has many clubs dedicated to outdoor activities like hiking, fly fishing, or gardening. Joining these clubs can provide a structured way to ensure regular nature interactions and help you meet like-minded peers. Being part of a community that values the outdoors can encourage you to make it a regular part of your routine.
As the new school year begins, it's essential to prioritize your mental and physical health. Integrating nature into your routine is a simple and powerful way to manage academic stress and enhance your overall well-being. By taking intentional steps to connect with the natural world, you can improve your focus, boost your mood, and set yourself up for a successful academic year. Remember, even small doses of nature can have a significant impact, so make it a habit to step outside and enjoy the benefits of the world around you.