Outdoor Spots in Massachusetts to Soothe Your Anxiety
Anyone who has struggled with anxiety knows that it can make you feel tense, nervous, and unable to relax. Finding ways to reduce anxiety and increase relaxation is key to managing anxious thoughts. Getting outdoors is scientifically proven and evidence-based to improve mental health and reduce stress, anxiety, and anger. Luckily, living in Massachusetts, there are many opportunities to spend time outdoors and reduce anxiety while at it.
What is the connection between good mental health and the outdoors?
Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is essential for physical and mental health. Low vitamin D levels are linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression. Many studies have shown that low vitamin D levels may increase anxiety. Many of us know that during the winter months in Massachusetts, lack of sunlight can lead to mood changes, and when the sun comes back in the spring, our moods improve. To increase our vitamin D naturally, we can spend time outside in the sun for about 15 minutes. This can be done by taking a walk or sitting outside with friends.
***If you are experiencing anxiety and depression, check with our doctor about your vitamin D levels.
Nature:
Spending time in nature reduces stress and anxiety while also boosting mood and feelings of happiness. The benefits of nature also lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce and regulate our nervous system arousal, and improve immune system functioning. It has also been shown to improve self-esteem! When we are outside, surrounded by the wonders of nature, our attention is diverted to all that is around us- our senses are activated. It connects us with the present moment. It can halt our ruminating thoughts and calm our nerves. A study has shown that benefits occur after spending 120 minutes in nature weekly. That is a total of about 17 minutes per day.
Looking for some outdoor spots in Massachusetts to explore while improving your mood?
Boston Area
Public Garden and Boston Common
The Esplanade
Rose Kennedy Fitzgerald Greenway
Arnold Arboretum
Cambridge Common
Christopher Columbus Park
Castle Island Park and Fort Independence
Back Bay Fens
Cambridge Crossing
Cape Cod and the Islands
Cape Cod National Seashore
Shining Sea Bike Trail (Falmouth, Woods Hole)
Cape Cod Rail Trail
Whale Watch (Provincetown, Barnstable)
Green Briar Nature Center and Thornton W Burgess Society (Sandwich)
Highfield Hall and Gardens (Falmouth)
North Shore
Breakheart Reservation (Saugus and Wakefield)
Salisbury Beach State Reservation (Salisbury)
Halibut Point State Park (Rockport)
Lowell Heritage State Park (Lowell)
Harold Parker State Forest (Andover)
Appleton Farms (Ipswich)
Metro West
New England Wild Flower Society Garden in the Woods (Framingham)
Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s Garden at Elm Bank (Dover)
Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary (Natick)
Hopkinton State Park (Hopkinton)
South Shore/South Coast
Driftway Conservation Park (Scituate)
Mass Audubon’s North River Wildlife Sanctuary (Marshfield)
Fort Taber Park (New Bedford)
Westport Town Farm (Westport)
Central Massachusetts
Green Hill Park (Worcester)
Elm Park (Worcester)
The Cascades (Worcester)
Salisbury Park (Worcester)
Western Massachusetts
Fitzgerald Lake Conservation Area (Northampton)
Grandmother’s Garden (Westfield)
Berkshire Botanical Garden (Stockbridge)
Spruces Park (Williamstown)
