Nature has become a quiet ally in Erica Crompton’s journey with schizophrenia, offering moments of peace, clarity, and connection that help brighten everyday life.

The links between mental health and the benefits of nature are well-established. My own schizophrenia improved when I moved out of urban areas and into the countryside.

Living in London and New York could be a struggle at times, but nowadays I live in a happy spot near a quiet woodland area. My “nature therapy tool” of choice is long country walks, but I don't always walk as much as I used to.

Thankfully, the garden I have now provides a perfect glimpse of nature, indoors or outdoors, whatever time it may be.

4 nature-related activities that give me a mental health boost 

1. A daily walk to net that vitamin D

One of the simplest ways I connect with nature is by taking a walk. It's my favorite form of exercise, reliably helping me manage my intrusive thoughts and anxiety.

I used to walk after work when I lived in London, traipsing along the streets of terraces. I'd find a weight lifted from my shoulders when I got home.

Today, I still take occasional walks, either alone or with my boyfriend, Paul. I have much better access to the countryside now as I live on an estate on the fringes of a country village.

"Walking or sitting, feeling the grass beneath my bare feet is wonderfully grounding, especially in times of uncertainty. It feels cool, fresh, and earthy."

My psychiatrist once found that my vitamin D (the vitamin we get through exposure to sunlight) was low. As well as keeping your bones, teeth, and muscles healthy, research suggests that vitamin D may be linked with mood regulation. So, I try to get out in the fresh air whenever possible, even if it's just the 40-minute walk to the local shop.

If a walk isn't on the cards, try taking a coffee to your porch or a nearby park bench. Just sitting quietly in nature may benefit your mental health.

2. Taking a scenic drive

I walk a little less than I used to in my thirties. But, sometimes, taking a drive via the scenic route does just as nicely. It's an accessible way to experience nature from the comfort of a car.

On days when you don't have the spoons for a walk, ask if a friend or a family member would like to take a drive through a local beauty spot. It's not unusual for my partner to take me out in the car when I'm in my pajamas and can't face getting dressed!

Sometimes, on a really hot day, we'll go for a spin in the car to use the air conditioning – it's so cool. Our usual route is about 15 miles to a hilltop near our village. We'll spend some time having a picnic in the car as we soak up the stunning views.

3. Doing nothing (outside, of course) 

Walking or sitting, feeling the grass beneath my bare feet is wonderfully grounding, especially in times of uncertainty. It feels cool, fresh, and earthy as I sit back and push my toes into the soil.

Last year, my partner and his dad generously built a small garden pond that I can watch from the window. It's so soothing to see the fish swim and listen to the sound of running water. We use oxygen and fountain pumps to keep our fish healthy. But the flowing sounds help soothe my anxiety, too.

I'm a big advocate of living like a queen in a more affordable area rather than squeezing myself into a cramped, busy space that feels more like a fold-away existence. In big cities today, my budget wouldn't even stretch to a small room in a shared apartment. Living in a village means I can afford a house with a front and back garden.

Best of all, I can enjoy my rural life and boosted wellbeing without worrying too much about the bills!

4. Letting (some of) the outdoors come indoors

Our garden is next to woodland, which I love. But I've spent my fair share of time living in smaller apartments. It's tricky to feel connected to nature when you're on the nth floor in a concrete block.

During those days, I used to invest in potted plants that could survive indoors or on a small balcony. Nurturing and pruning them was a lovely bit of nature therapy. And one of the nice things about plants is that they never judge you!

"One of the simplest ways I connect with nature is by taking a walk. It's my favorite form of exercise, reliably helping me manage my intrusive thoughts and anxiety."

But I can’t be outside 24/7, even if the garden in my current home tempts me to be. Still, even when I'm tucked up inside, I’ll find ways to stay close to nature. Sleeping with a window slightly open can help, as I can hear the lovely ripples of water coming from the pond.

I wouldn't feel comfortable going outside late at night for a walk or even with a mug of hot chocolate. But I do have a little skylight in the roof I sleep under. Opening it a crack and feeling the breeze play on my face is a lovely way to soothe myself when I'm wide awake at night.

If it's raining, the window stays closed, of course, but I close my eyes and listen to it pattering against the glass. It's a beautiful, cozy experience when I'm tucked underneath my comforter. With nature never far away, I'm soon fast asleep again.

The information presented is solely for educational purposes, not as specific advice for the evaluation, management, or treatment of any condition.

The individual(s) who have written and created the content and whose images appear in this article have been paid by Teva Pharmaceuticals for their contributions. This content represents the opinions of the contributor and does not necessarily reflect those of Teva Pharmaceuticals. Similarly, Teva Pharmaceuticals does not review, control, influence, or endorse any content related to the contributor's websites or social media networks. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered medical advice or recommendations. Consult a qualified medical professional for diagnosis and before beginning or changing any treatment regimen.

NPS-ALL-NP-01637 OCTOBER 2025