In the hustle and noise of daily life, nature has a quiet but powerful way of bringing us back to ourselves. Whether it’s a stroll through a neighborhood park, a hike along the North Shore, or simply tending a garden, green spaces offer more than just beauty—they offer healing. In Minnesota, where seasons shift dramatically and nature is woven into our identity, the connection between mental health and our natural places are deeply felt.
The Healing Power of Nature
Scientific research backs up what many of us have intuitively known: spending time in nature improves our mental well-being. Exposure to our natural spaces can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while improving focus, creativity, and mood. For Minnesotans, that could mean a moment of stillness at Como Park, a walk along the Mississippi River, or a weekend in the Boundary Waters.
Stewardship for Well-Being
There’s another layer to this relationship: caring for nature also supports our own well-being. Stewardship, taking responsibility for the health of our natural places deepens our sense of purpose and connection. Whether it’s volunteering to clean up a trail, restoring native plant species, or teaching kids how to compost, stewardship creates reciprocal care. When we steward the land, water, and air, we are, in turn, caring for our own mental and physical health.
The beauty of this relationship is that it doesn’t require perfection or a complete lifestyle overhaul. Stewardship for well-being can begin with small, consistent actions: planting pollinator-friendly flowers, choosing reusable goods, or even sharing a favorite outdoor spot with a friend to encourage them to care too.
A Minnesota State of Mind
Minnesota is uniquely positioned to be a leader in the movement connecting mental health and the outdoors. With our 10,000+ lakes, vast public lands, and strong culture of outdoor recreation, we already understand the power of place. The Upstream pledge invites Minnesotans to deepen that connection—not only by enjoying the beauty around us, but by taking the next step to care for it.
When we care for our natural spaces, we create a ripple effect of healing. Clean air and water, quiet forests, and vibrant prairies support not just ecosystems but entire communities. In a time of rising disconnection and division, nature offers a path forward—grounded, connected, and hopeful.
Your Next Step
Looking to begin or deepen your eco-therapy journey in Minnesota? Here are a few ideas:
- Take a screen-free walk in your local park and simply observe.
- Start a nature journal to track your moods alongside your time outdoors.
- Join a local stewardship group working on conservation or restoration.
- Explore Upstream’s Find Your Next tool to take your next step in caring for Minnesota.
At Upstream, we believe that loving where you live starts with seeing the value in your surroundings—and seeing that caring for nature is also caring for yourself.