We all know that spending time in nature is good for us. But did you know that it can actually help to reduce stress and anxiety?

Here are 3 ways that spending time in nature can help to reduce stress and anxiety:

1. Nature has a calming effect on our minds and bodies. When we're in nature, our bodies release chemicals that have calming effects, such as serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals help to reduce stress and anxiety, and they can also improve our mood.

2. Nature helps us to connect with our senses. When we're in nature, we're surrounded by sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures that can help us to connect with our senses. This can help to ground us and bring us into the present moment, which can be helpful for reducing stress and anxiety.

3. Nature provides a sense of peace and tranquillity. When we're in nature, we’re often exploring and discovering new things, whether that be a flower you’ve never seen before or a trail we’ve never gone on before. Discovering new things in nature opens the mind and creates a sense of peace as you are not limited to certain things. Reaching this peacefulness helps reduce stress and anxiety as you enjoy your time with nature.

To help with finding the perfect park for you, we’ve compiled a list of 6 parks in Japan, some that are free and some that require a small payment, that you can visit and experience the benefits of nature: 

1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This park is located in the heart of Tokyo and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, an English garden, and a French garden. There are also a number of ponds and lakes in the park, making it a great place to relax and de-stress.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 9am–7pm;
Entry: $3 - $5 USD
Location: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

2. Ueno Park: This park is one of the largest parks in Tokyo and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The park is home to a number of museums, including the Tokyo National Museum and the National Science Museum. There are also a number of gardens in the park, including the Shinobazu Pond Garden and the Koishikawa Korakuen Garden.

Opening Hours: Everyday 5am–11pm
Entry: Free
Location: Ueno Park

3. Yoyogi Park: This park is located in Shibuya, Tokyo and is a popular spot for people-watching and relaxation. The park is home to a number of different areas, including a large lawn area, a pond, and a number of shrines and temples.

Opening Hours: 24/7
Entry: Free
Location: Yoyogi Park

4. Shinrin-yoku Forest Therapy: This is a Japanese practice of forest bathing, which involves spending time in nature and connecting with the forest's atmosphere. There are a number of different places in Japan where you can experience shinrin-yoku, including the Aokigahara Forest, the Yoshino-Kumano National Park, and the Shirakami-Sanchi National Park.

5. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: This forest is located in Kyoto and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The forest is home to a number of bamboo trees, which create a stunning canopy that is sure to take your breath away. We would suggest heading here bright and early to avoid the tourist wave, and then enjoy lunch at a mom and pop cafe in the neighbourhood.

Opening Hours: 24/7
Entry: Free
Location: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

6. Kiyomizu-dera Temple: This temple is located in Kyoto and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is famous for its wooden stage, which is built over a waterfall. The temple is also home to a number of gardens, which are a great place to relax and de-stress.

Opening Hours: 6am–6pm
Entry: 400 yen/$2-$3 USD
Location: Kiyomizu-dera Temple

When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, try heading out into nature and experience the benefits firsthand. The great outdoors can provide a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of daily life, helping you reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Whether it’s a walk in the parks, a day at the beach, or a hike up the mountain, nature’s calming influence can relieve your mind and reduce stress. So, next time you feel overwhelmed, step outside, take a deep breath, and appreciate the beauty of nature. You’ll be surprised by how much it can ease your stress and anxiety!