The demands of being Vice-president of Happy Hedgehog Counseling LLC require Heidi to take some down time. How does she maintain her mental health? Heidi finds that spending time in nature is calming. Maintaining proper mental health is important for the VP of a Counseling office.

Here she is soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of the forest. Time in nature helps reduce stress, and lower blood pressure while boosting mood and cognitive function. The evidence on how it impacts Heidi’s blood pressure and cognitive functioning are inconclusive.

If you are looking to feel more peaceful, go outside. Even if it is just for a few minutes. Notice what you see, what changes have happened since the last time you were outside? Focusing on your environment helps you be in the present. When you are in the present it takes attention away from worrying about the past or future.

If you cannot go outside, having plants or other items from nature can bring a sense of calm. Shells, rocks, feathers or a photograph from a vacation can create a calm moment. Books about nature can also give your mind a little vacation. What do you think you can do to support your mental health?