A dog relaxing with its owner on the beach, because it's often noted that time in nature helps kids feel less anxious overtime.
| |

Can Time in Nature Help Kids Feel Less Anxious?

Many children today feel stressed and anxious. School, social media, and busy schedules can overwhelm them, and parents and caregivers often wonder how to help. One simple and natural way to reduce anxiety is by spending time outside.

Time Spent Outdoors Is Actually A Huge Benefit

One simple and natural way to reduce anxiety is by spending time outdoors. Research shows that being in nature can help kids feel calmer and happier. But how exactly does nature do this?

1. Nature Helps Kids Feel Calm

Spending time outside, whether at the beach, by the sea, or in open spaces like parks and gardens, can make children feel more at ease. The sound of waves, the warmth of the sun, and the fresh ocean breeze can create a sense of peace. Being in nature helps kids focus on their surroundings rather than their worries, giving their minds a break from stress.

2. Moving the Body Reduces Stress

When kids spend time outside, they naturally move more. They run along the shore, swim in the sea, collect pebbles, or play on the sand. Physical activity is known to reduce stress and increase happiness. Exercise helps the brain release chemicals that improve mood, making children feel more relaxed and positive.

3. Sunlight Improves Mood and Sleep

Exposure to sunlight plays a key role in boosting mood. Sunlight helps the body produce serotonin, a chemical that promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. It also helps regulate sleep patterns. When kids get enough sunlight during the day, they sleep better at night, making it easier to manage stress and anxiety.

4. A Break from Screens and Noise

Many children spend hours on screens, whether watching videos, playing games, or using social media. Too much screen time can lead to anxiety and restlessness. Nature provides a much-needed escape from digital distractions. Whether watching the sunset, listening to the waves, or feeling the sand between their toes, time outdoors helps children reset and feel refreshed.

5. Nature Encourages Exploration and Problem-Solving

Outdoor play allows kids to explore, experiment, and overcome small challenges. On an island, this might mean building sandcastles, skipping rocks, or finding interesting seashells. These simple activities help children build confidence, creativity, and resilience, making everyday challenges more manageable.

6. Being Near Water Has a Soothing Effect

Research shows that spending time near water has a calming effect on the brain. The rhythmic sound of waves and the feeling of floating in water can lower stress levels and improve overall well-being. This “blue mind” effect makes island living an incredible advantage for children who experience anxiety.

7. Nature Feels Like a Safe and Peaceful Place

For many kids, natural spaces feel safe and comforting. Whether it’s sitting quietly by the shore, digging in the sand, or playing with friends at the beach, being in nature can create a sense of security. This feeling of safety helps reduce anxiety and allows children to process their emotions in a healthy way.

Final Thoughts

If your child seems anxious, consider spending more time outdoors together. Go swimming or sit by the water and watch the waves. The more time kids spend in nature, the more they may feel calm, happy, and in control of their emotions.

If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue, you can reach out here.

Christine Fava is an integrative coach at Willingness. She graduated from the University of Malta with an Honours degree in Psychology and is pursuing an ICF Diploma in Integrative Coaching. She is passionate about integrative coaching, believing it helps individuals achieve their personal and professional goals by addressing topics like confidence, relationships, time management, and stress management.

References

  • Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207–1212.
  • Cohen-Cline, H., Turkheimer, E., & Duncan, G. E. (2015). Access to green space, physical activity, and mental health: A twin study. Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, 69(6), 523–529.
  • Gill, T. (2014). The benefits of children’s engagement with nature: A systematic literature review. Children & Nature Network.
  • Kaplan, S. (1995). The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 15(3), 169–182.
  • Louv, R. (2008). Last Child in the woods: Saving our children from nature-deficit disorder. Algonquin Books.
  • Nichols, W. (2014). Blue mind: The surprising science that shows how being near, in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, more connected, and better at what you do—little Brown.
  • Ratey, J. J., & Hagerman, E. (2008). Spark: The revolutionary new science of exercise and the brain. Little, Brown.
  • Ulrich, R. S. (1984). Viewing through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420–421.

Similar Posts