Words by Sheikha Majda Jaber Humoud Al Sabah, philanthropist, entrepreneur, and founder of Houna Initiative.
According to a 2022 survey conducted by McKinsey Health Institute, nearly two-thirds of employees across four prominent GCC nations – Kuwait, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Qatar – have reported symptoms of poor mental health. In recent years, the relentless pace of modern life has captured millions of individuals in cycles of stress and burnout. Fuelled by a societal norm that glorifies constant productivity and trivialises self-care, the pressure to keep pace is undeniably intense.
Sadly, this mindset contributes to a toxic culture of neglecting mental well-being, thus exacerbating the silent crisis of mental health. Further emphasising on this upsetting reality, the survey also revealed that one in three GCC respondents reported burnout symptoms and struggles with physical health conditions. Based on these alarming stats, it has become clear that the necessity for widespread intervention has never been more pressing.
As we grapple with these unsettling findings, it’s vital that we turn our attention to effective solutions. Nowadays, we often underestimate the power of the outdoors and overlook the necessity of maintaining a connection with nature. Studies have actually shown that connecting with nature can significantly reduce stress hormones, increase feelings of happiness, and enhance overall well-being. The gentle warmth of the sun, the rustling of leaves in the wind, and the songs of birds perched on trees can, in their own quiet ways, coax our minds to shed their worries and find a sense of calmness within.
One might argue that our region’s scorching summer sun can limit our options when it comes to physical activities and being outdoors. However, while that might be true, there are plenty of alternatives to explore! Think an early sunrise yoga session, a short afternoon walk or an evening dip in the water; all these activities are potent catalysts in harmonising our body and mind. Let me tell you how.
More ‘feel-good’ hormones.
Engaging in outdoor activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, or hiking triggers the release of endorphins – our body’s natural mood lifters. These ‘feel-good hormones’ enhance our mood and serve as a natural counter to stress and anxiety. The result is not merely a healthier body but a state of enhanced mental well-being – a transformation that resonates at the core of our overall health. In fact, according to a study published in The Lancet Psychiatry Journal, people who engage in physical activity have 43.2% fewer days of poor mental health than individuals who don’t do any form of exercise.
Improved sleep
The ripple effects of physical activity and natural light exposure extend well beyond immediate mood enhancement and stress reduction. A key benefit, often overlooked, lies in their potent influence on our sleeping patterns. Engaging in physical activities and bathing in the glory of natural sunlight work in tandem to regulate our circadian rhythms – the internal ‘clocks’ that dictate our sleep-wake cycles. Irregular sleep patterns can lead to irritability, mood swings, and an increased risk of developing mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Actually, a 2021 study found that participants were 2.5 times more likely to have mental distress when getting less than 6 hours of sleep on average compared to those with efficient sleeping patterns. Hence, quality sleep is not merely a luxury; it’s a health pillar that is as vital as balanced nutrition or regular exercise. In the realm of mental health, its significance is even more pronounced.
Cognitive stimulation
Engaging in different outdoor activities stimulates the brain and keeps it active, thus aiding in increased creativity, improved memory, enhanced problem-solving skills, as well as nurtured positive thinking and self-talk. Science also suggests that spending time outside can replenish depleted energy circuits. In fact, one study found that hikers were able to solve 47% more puzzles requiring creative thinking than other individuals. This cognitive stimulation immediately affects and improves our mental agility, allowing our bodies to cope with stress and anxiety.
Nurtured self-confidence
Embarking on different and new outdoor adventures, whether it’s harnessing the rhythm of the waves when surfing, savouring the patient thrill of fishing, or navigating the vast expanses with sailing, broadens our perspectives and enriches our life experiences, thus facilitating a robust sense of achievement that in turn bolsters our self-esteem – a key driver when it comes to our mental wellbeing. Cultivating self-confidence not only increases positive self-perception and reduces negative self-talk and self-criticism, it also strengthens our resilience and ability to overcome challenges and setbacks. Thus, as we welcome the warmth of the summer, let’s seize the opportunity to dive into new outdoor activities. By doing so, we are enriching our skillset and indulging our adventurous spirit and nurturing our mental health in a significant, sustainable way. In this pursuit of novel experiences, we find pleasure, passion, and peace of mind.
Self reflection
As the vibrant hustle of the world yields to the leisurely rhythm of summer, we find ourselves in the embrace of a slower pace, giving us the precious commodity of time. This seasonal shift can serve as a vital catalyst for reflection and introspection, an invitation to look inward and re-evaluate our paths. Carving out time in nature and embracing the outdoors can open doors to profound self-discovery. The serenity and calmness allows us to gain perspective on our lives, to assess our goals, values, and relationships with fresh eyes. We can explore what truly brings us joy, what challenges us, and where we might need to implement changes for a more fulfilling life trajectory.
The rising tide of mental health concerns within the GCC region is a stark reminder of the dire need to address this largely silent epidemic. While the reasons for this escalation are multifaceted and complex, the solutions may lie in simple acts that bring us back to the heart of our innate human nature. Embracing the outdoors can serve as a powerful tool in fostering mental well-being. The tranquillity of nature and the dynamism of physical activity synergistically harmonise to create an atmosphere that encourages the release of stress, improves mood, enhances sleep, stimulates cognitive function, bolsters self-confidence, and fosters introspection.
