Why ‘Touching Grass’ is More Than Just Trending Buzzwords

When was the last time you unplugged from your phone or laptop, and not just to catch some sleep?

Picture yourself, without Wi-Fi (I know, breathe and release), fully immersed in nature—touching grass, feeling the earth beneath your feet, listening to the wind and birds without a care in the world. You may have noticed you've been checking your phone's battery multiple times a day, but when was the last time you truly unplugged to recharge yourself?

If the answer is “I don’t know,” then consider this a gentle reminder to touch grass and reflect. Use some of our favorite Rennaï-approved tips to reconnect with yourself in nature. Ready to start reaping the benefits? Here are our top three tips.

The Benefits of Touching Grass

Wondering why it's worth stepping away from screens from time to time and diving into nature? Let’s get into it.

Stress Reduction

• Benefit: Spending time in nature helps lower cortisol levels and induces relaxation.

• Why It’s Important: High cortisol levels can lead to increased blood pressure, weakened immune function, and a higher risk of heart disease and obesity. Lowering cortisol through nature activities not only promotes mental calmness but can also reduce the risk of stress-related illnesses (Nature, 2019).

• Let's keep going: By reducing cortisol levels, time spent in natural environments can mitigate the harmful effects of chronic stress on both your mental and physical health.

Mood Enhancement

• Benefit: Experience improved mood and enhanced emotional well-being by spending time in nature, which offers a soothing and restorative environment.

• Why It’s Important: Positive emotions are essential for mental health and resilience. Nature’s calming effects can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, promoting a more positive outlook on life.

• Research Proves It: Studies from Psychology Today (2021) highlight that exposure to natural environments can significantly improve mood and reduce stress-related mood disorders.

Boost in Creativity

• Benefit: Ignite your creativity and foster innovative thinking through the inspiration found in natural surroundings.

• Why It’s Important: Creativity is crucial for innovation and personal growth. Exposure to natural environments can unlock new ideas and solutions to challenges.

• Recommended by Experts: Psychologists cited in Psychology Today (2021) observe that spending time in natural environments enhances creative thinking and problem-solving skills, contributing to professional success and personal satisfaction.

Expert Insights

• Dr. Elena Michaels emphasizes the profound mental health benefits of regular exposure to natural environments (Psychology Today, 2021). Nature can act as a sanctuary from the fast-paced demands of modern life, fostering a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us.

Opening the Doors to Nature

• Outdoor Breaks with Refreshing Drinks: Take your lunch or coffee break outdoors on a terrace, a garden, or a park, accompanied by a refreshing drink like sparkling water. Whether you're solo or with colleagues, taking a break outdoors, whatever the season, can transform a routine moment into a refreshing, mindful experience.

• Rideshare Bikes: Explore your city or town on a rideshare bike. It's an eco-friendly alternative to driving or public transit, allowing you to soak in the fresh air and discover new places while adding the bonus of physical activity to your daily routine.

• Local Trail Exploration: Lace up your shoes and explore nearby trails. Whether it's a leisurely walk or a more adventurous hike, spending time in nature can rejuvenate your mind and body.

• Embracing Nature Every Day: You don’t need to go on a full-on hike every day to get your daily dose of fresh air and nature. Maybe you could walk to work, spend some time in the garden, or add an evening stroll to your routine.

Take a Break from Screens and Reconnect with the Natural World

Finding solace in nature offers a soothing escape from your busy life, allowing you to recharge and reconnect with yourself. These moments of tranquility can remind you of the importance of simplicity in enhancing your well-being.

At Rennaï, we celebrate these experiences as part of our mission to redefine beauty and self-care. Stay connected with us and be the first to hear about our latest articles and updates by signing up for our newsletter.

References

• The concept of Forest Bathing or Shinrin-Yoku, a practice rooted in Japanese culture, has been investigated extensively. Read more in the National Library of Medicine here.

• For more insight into the impact of outdoor activities on mental health, the American Psychological Association here.

• Bike Share Programs and other eco-friendly alternatives are increasingly gaining popularity. For more details, refer to the local bike share program in your city/region.