Stop staring at your screen!

The inspiration you need is outside.

It’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed when there seems to be an endless list of tasks that need attention.

If it’s a work-related thing that keeps us glued to a keyboard, it’s possible that all perspective is lost and all we can see is the list of tasks.  We forget to prioritise and even lose sight of the fact that sometimes, things change in such a way that what we see as our “vital” input has suddenly become redundant, regardless of the amount of time and effort we’d put in.

Often, a walk outside clears the mind and when we return to the task it seems more manageable.

Spending time in nature gives us much more than fresh air and a different view - it helps order things in our minds so that trivial things are filtered out and we can see what really needs attention.

Getting away from the computer or whatever work we’re doing, leaving the house or office and just taking a walk can improve our mood, switch off a cycle of negative thoughts and provide much needed perspective.

Outdoor exercise (yes, even just walking counts as exercise) has a great tendency to lift the spirits and reduce anxiety.  Being in nature (“forest bathing”) seems particularly powerful, but even walking through a city can give the reset we need when we’re stuck in a negative thought cycle or feeling overwhelmed.

Becoming aware of the natural world around us creates a calmer mental environment and generally pushes us towards a more positive outlook.

The beneficial effects of a walk in the woods don’t take long to kick in.

Even a few minutes is valuable but a half-hour is ideal - the best balance between the time it takes and the overall improvements you’ll see.

So - how’s about getting your boots on and heading out for thirty minutes or so?