“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” – Alfred Wainwright
The recent burst of sunshine might have slipped behind the clouds, but that doesn’t mean we should hide away indoors. A little rain never hurt anyone — in fact, time outdoors might just be one of the best things you can do for your mental health and wellbeing.
🌳 Nature as a Therapist
Spending time in natural environments doesn’t just feel good — it is good for you.
According to a landmark study by the University of Exeter, people who spend at least two hours a week in nature report significantly better health and wellbeing than those who don’t. Even short, regular trips to green spaces can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, ease anxiety, and improve mood.
👉 Read the full study here – White et al., 2019
This is the very reason practices like forest bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) are now recognised globally for their calming and therapeutic impact.
🚶 Walk and Talk: Counselling Without Walls
For many people, traditional counselling settings can be intimidating. Sitting face-to-face in a therapy room may feel too intense — especially when trying to talk about difficult emotions.
Enter: walk and talk therapy.
Taking conversations outside helps remove some of the social pressure. Walking side-by-side can make it easier to open up. You’re moving, you’re grounded by nature, and the focus shifts from eye contact to shared experience.
A study from the University of East London found that outdoor therapy can improve the quality of the therapeutic relationship and lead to greater openness and honesty.
👉 Explore the research – Revell & McLeod, 2016
🫶 An Inclusive, Grounding Environment
Nature doesn’t judge.
It doesn’t ask you who you are, what you’re wearing, or where you’re from. It’s an equaliser — a space where everyone is welcome and the expectations of face-to-face interaction can be softened. For communities where mental health stigma still lingers, being outdoors offers a more relaxed, culturally sensitive route into healing and support.
The inclusive nature of the outdoors makes it ideal for working with a diverse range of individuals — including young people, those from marginalised backgrounds, or people returning to society after hardship.
🌱 The Outdoors for Healing and Growth
Beyond being a space for therapy, the outdoors is also a catalyst for development.
Whether it’s a group challenge, a nature walk, or learning new skills like climbing or canoeing, outdoor activities provide experiential learning that builds confidence, resilience, and leadership.
Research has shown that outdoor learning can lead to meaningful improvements in social behaviour, emotional regulation, and self-esteem — particularly in young people.
👉 Review the evidence – Rickinson et al., 2004
☔ Don’t Let the Weather Win
The sunshine may be hiding, but the benefits of nature are still very much alive — and they don’t require perfect weather.
Try This:
Invite a friend or colleague for a walk this week. Choose a local woodland, park, or canal path. Bring a waterproof. Let the conversation flow. You might be surprised by what comes up when you walk side-by-side, with the outdoors guiding your rhythm.
🌤 Final Thoughts
In a world of screens, pressure, and constant noise, nature is the antidote.
Whether you’re feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or simply a little low — heading outside can help restore a sense of calm, connection, and clarity.
The outdoors is more than just a place. It’s a therapist. A teacher. A friend. And it’s waiting — rain or shine.
