March: Transitioning to Spring – Nature and Renewal!
Spring, with its blossoming flowers and warmer weather, brings more than just a change in seasons. It has a profound impact on our mental well-being. Let’s explore the delightful ways in which nature and springtime contribute to our mental health:
- Increased Sunlight Exposure: As spring arrives, we bask in more sunlight. This boost in natural light has a direct effect on our mood. Sunlight helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which plays a vital role in maintaining good health and mental well-being.
- Stress Reduction: Nature acts as a powerful stress-buster. Spending time outdoors can regulate our sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for our stress response. Even just five minutes in nature can have an immediate calming effect.
- Physical Activity: Spring encourages us to move more. Whether it’s a leisurely walk, gardening, or outdoor exercise, being active in nature has multiple benefits. Physical activity releases endorphins, which enhance our mood and overall mental health.
- Green Spaces: The presence of green spaces, such as parks and gardens, positively impacts our well-being. These areas offer a respite from urban hustle, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
- Enhanced Social Interaction: Spring draws people outdoors, fostering social connections. Whether it’s a picnic, a hike, or a neighborhood stroll, these interactions contribute to our happiness and sense of belonging.
- Mindfulness and Nature: Being present in nature allows us to practice mindfulness. Paying attention to the rustling leaves, the scent of flowers, or the feel of grass under our feet grounds us in the moment, reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity.
- Natural Light: Spring’s longer daylight hours provide us with more natural light. Exposure to natural light during the day helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle, improves mood, and enhances cognitive function.
Transitioning to Spring - Nature and Renewal
Information Box Group
The Working Mind Mental Health Training Learn More
The Working Mind is an evidence-based program designed to promote mental health and reduce stigma around mental illness in the workplace. This training directly supports our shared purpose of promoting and contributing to a healthy and safe community at McMaster University. |
Professor Hippo on Campus Learn More
The core Professor Hippo-on-Campus program consists of 8 modules that teach staff and faculty at McMaster about student mental health and how to support students in a way that suits their role, whether it be as an academic advisor or as a professor. The program will also teach how to use the Responding to Students in Distress and Difficulty (RSDD) protocol.
Employee Family and Assistance Program Learn More
McMaster University is proud to offer the extended benefit of an Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) with our partner, Telus Health.
Upcoming Employee Well-being Events
Menopause - How It Impacts Us All
Employee Well-Being
The Working Mind Mental Health Training for People Leaders
Employee Well-Being, Learning & Development, Mental Health, TWM Training
McMaster Biology Greenhouse Tour & Planting Session
Employee Well-Being
Effective Tax Strategies
Employee Well-Being, Well-being Training
The Working Mind Mental Health Training for People Leaders
Employee Well-Being, Learning & Development, Mental Health, TWM Training
The Working Mind Mental Health Training for People Leaders
Employee Well-Being, Learning & Development, Mental Health, TWM Training
McMaster Pulse at Pace Program
Employee Well-Being
Mac Mindfulness for Employees
Employee Well-Being
Learn More About Your Well-Being
Employee Well-being Contacts
Karli Dillane
Program Coordinator, Workplace Health & Well-being