May Is Mental Health Awareness Month!
It’s scientifically proven that spending time outdoors has a positive impact on our mental wellbeing. From the vitamin D and physical activity of the stroll to the simple fact that trees clean the air around them, immersing yourself in green and blue spaces has shown measurable wellness benefits that let us live longer and better.
Have you heard of nature baths? Don’t worry, there’s no actual bathing involved. It stems from a Japanese concept called shinrin-yoku, meaning “forest bathing” or “relaxing in a forest atmosphere.” During a nature bath, you bathe in the energy and clean air of a wooded area, opting for a slow, calming walk over breaking a sweat. The practice is in meditation and intentionally appreciating the surrounding beauty.
In honor of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite locations with lush green trees and soothing blue waters for you to easily refer back to on hard days.
Arbuckle Mountains
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With granite dating back 1.4 billion years ago, the Arbuckle Mountains are the oldest known formations in the U.S. Today, visitors are welcome to find solace in these ancient mountains with natural springs, forests, prairies and natural architecture to explore all around.
Blue River
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At the Blue River, you have 141 miles of shoreline to traverse as free-flowing water sets a gentle ambiance. There are many spots along the way for camping and other activities in addition to shallow wading areas if you want to take a dip in the cool water – still no actual bathing, please!
Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge
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Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge is one of more than 560 national wildlife refuges that form a network of U.S. lands and waters managed specifically for wildlife. Here you can enjoy self-guided trails through wildflower fields, woods and wetlands that set the scene for wildlife and bird watching.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
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If you haven’t yet seen the crystal-clear waters of Buffalo Springs, we highly suggest you do on your next visit to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. It’s a bit out of the way so it’s perfect for a mind-easing hike and totally worth it. You’ll find many more trails here as well as streams, waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
Lake Texoma State Park
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One reason Lake Texoma State Park is a premier destination for outdoor recreation is its many miles of nature trails. The area offers guided bird and butterfly hikes, self-guided trails and plenty of wildlife sightseeing. You’ll find some of the best hiking and views at Lake Texoma.
Martin Park Nature Center
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This 144-acre natural sanctuary will make you forget you’re just 20 minutes away from Downtown OKC. Martin Park Nature Center has 2.5 miles of gentle hiking trails that run through tree-covered forests and grasslands. The park is home to a variety of wildlife including birds, butterflies, foxes, reptiles and deer.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental illness is more common than you think. If you or someone you know is in crisis, 988 is a direct, three-digit lifeline that connects you with trained behavioral health professionals that can get all Oklahomans the help they need. Learn more at 988oklahoma.com.
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