I had never thought of myself as someone who thrives in the great outdoors—until the spring of 2020 arrived. Then, like many Americans, I found my home to be somewhat confining. My small backyard, once seen as an untidy project, began to transform into an enticing spot where I would spend a few hours each day. Initially, I ventured out for a change of scenery and to escape the noise of my children's online schooling, but it gradually became a staple in my daily routine due to the positive impact it had on my mood and productivity. On days when I stayed indoors, my outlook was less optimistic, and my patience with my children waned. I was aware that vitamin D likely played a part, but the differences I observed were so striking that I suspected other factors were at work. It turns out my intuition was correct, as spending time in nature is linked to better health outcomes related to diabetes, heart disease, cancer, respiratory problems, migraines, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, and even memory. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, researchers and health professionals recognize a definite positive correlation between exposure to nature or green spaces and our mental well-being. The good news is that you don't need to embark on a 2-hour hike—or even break a sweat—to enjoy the psychological benefits of nature. You can gain immediate psychological advantages by simply being outdoors among trees and green spaces for five minutes or more. Here are four ways that spending time outside can enhance your cognition and mood.

Four Ways Spending Time Outdoors Can Enhance Your Mental Health

1. It Enhances Work and School Performance
2. It Regulates Sleep Patterns
3. It Elevates Mood and Alleviates Depression and Anxiety
4. It Instantly Reduces Stress

How to Spend More Time Outdoors

Not sure how to get started, or don't have regular access to a park or green space? Here are some ways to reap the psychological benefits of nature:

• Spend 10-15 minutes in the morning meditating outdoors or take your pet for a walk around the block.
• Move regular activities—such as working on your laptop or reading—outside.
• If you don't have a mobile job, take your lunch break outside or go for a lunchtime walk.
• Try an outdoor workout class.
• Have a picnic lunch or dinner.
• Take up gardening (which also offers numerous mental and physical health benefits).
• Move your desk by a window where you can see greenery.
• Invest in a few indoor plants, as some research suggests the color green has a calming effect on the mind. (Bonus: These ones can actually help clean the air in your home!)