National Stress Awareness Day

The first Wednesday of every November is National Stress Awareness Day. Which this year falls on 6 November. Stress is something which we all encounter. We need some level of stress in order to function effectively. Indeed, the Goldilocks principle of stress suggests that small amounts contribute towards building our resilience. Too little stress in life means we do not develop coping mechanisms in the way that those who experience just the right amount do. Too much stress is also bad for us, as it can lead to mental and physical ill health.

If you ask someone (of the same sort of demographic to your own) to list their life stresses, similar themes are likely to crop up. Money, family, work, are three which come to mind immediately, based on my own experience. Part of stress awareness is the ability to recognise when the load risks becoming overbearing, and working to reduce the likelihood of this happening.

I described the importance of taking time out to stand and stare in this post earlier this year. Being outside and immersing oneself in nature has long been promoted as one way of coping with stress. On an afternoon walk earlier this week, I tried to think about how, specifically, being outside helped me.

I found I didn’t spend walking time ruminating on stressors which have been on my mind. Instead, thoughts ran freely, creating ideas for writing and photography projects. I felt connected to the environment, surrounded by nature in place of the distractions of home. A range of sensations combined to form a holistic experience. Birdsong, the gentle breeze, autumn colours, and the smell of wet earth surrounded us as we went.

My preference for being outside is to interact with nature in some way. Usually through photography, dog walking, bird watching, or a combination. Something to connect me with the environment. I don’t find the same benefit through a stroll to the shops, which has an end point, and is likely to take place in a more urban setting. Being outside certainly helped ease any stress, by providing a mindful distraction. It also provided the head space to nurture the creative thoughts which sparked while I was out.

There are many studies which highlight the link between being around nature, and a reduction in stress levels. Even just 20 minutes a day is beneficial. While the activity won’t solve your problems, or remove the stress, it certainly offers psychological as well as physical benefits. So on National Stress Awareness Day, I can’t offer a solution to stress, but I do encourage you to take time outside when you can. And leave technology unplugged and at home.