NATURE JOURNALING IN COSTA RICA AND MENTAL HEALTH

Costa Rica is a beautiful country in Central America where visitors enjoy lovely tropical beaches, grand adventures, the wonders of nature, and a rich, friendly culture. The driver who drove us from the airport to our resort was well-informed and enriched us by explaining The Costa Rica Essentials.

Essential Costa Rica is about promoting organic ingredients, unspoiled nature, and authentic experiences that bring about balance, thrill, recharge, and the ability to be and stay alive. All of the above is possible because we are able to connect with nature in Costa Rica.

It is a known fact that exposure to natural environments offers an array of mental health benefits. There are many studies to prove that exposure to nature can decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression, risk of cognitive decline(which is dementia), and stress while improving cognitive functioning and development, emotion regulation, mood, and psychological well-being.

Art and Nature Journaling was the central theme of our trip to Costa Rica. I believe nature journaling in Costa Rica can positively impact mental health by combining mindfulness, creative expression, and natural beauty. Mental well-being can be greatly enhanced by nature journaling:-

CONNECTION TO NATURE

Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for nature journaling. When we spend time outdoors, we are immersing ourselves in nature. This, in turn, not only reduces stress, anxiety, and depression but also promotes a sense of calm and tranquility.

MINDFULNESS AND PRESENCE

Practicing nature journaling encourages us to slow down, observe details, and be fully present in the moment. This practice of mindfulness can help quiet the mind, reduce racing thoughts and thereby promote relaxation.

CREATIVE EXPRESSION

When we engage ourselves in creative activities like sketching, drawing, coloring, painting, writing, and recording observations in a journal, we create a therapeutic outlet for ourselves. Expressing emotions and thoughts through art and words leads us to a sense of accomplishment and improved mood.

STRESS REDUCTION

Participating in art and nature-focused activities directly decreases the body's stress response. Nature journaling can help shift the focus away from daily worries, thereby allowing for a break, a mental break.

BOOSTING POSITIVE EMOTIONS

Documenting nature's beauty evokes positive emotions coupled with a sense of wonder and harmony. Reflecting on these positive experiences helps improve mood and an overall outlook.

CONNECTION WITH ENVIRONMENT 

As we read nature journals, we learn about the landscapes, the local flora and fauna, birds, insects, and animals. This helps develop a deeper connection with the environment, thereby fostering a sense of belonging and interconnectedness.

PERSONAL GROWTH

As we resort to nature journaling on a regular basis, we can track our observations over a period of time. This way, we can track changes in the environment and in our own skills. The sense of progress can boost self-esteem, insight, and personal growth.

As I resorted to nature journaling during this trip, I first found a serene and comfortable spot. That place inspired me; I paid close attention to the sounds, smells, and colors around me. I let my senses guide my observations. I did not worry about creating a masterpiece; I only slowed down, tried to be in the moment, focused on the process, and enjoyed the experience.

Before going on the trip, I did my own research about nature journaling. The primary goal is personal enjoyment and well-being. In essence, allow yourself to explore and express without judgment. I truly believe that pursuing nature journaling definitely supports mental health. Costa Rica’s lush landscapes provide an ideal backdrop for this rewarding practice.

Through the practice of nature journaling, I felt more safe in the rainforests and cloud forests of Costa Rica. As I reflected on the zip-lining in the Arenal area, I experienced an interconnectedness with nature. As I journaled about the River Balsa, I understood that we are all part of something greater than ourselves. Drawing about the volcano makes me feel like an artist. It has instilled a newfound respect for the environment, thereby enhancing my self-esteem. As I journal about the Macuna, I am left with a sense of awe and wonder. The act of drawing and writing has allowed for self-actualization. I strongly 

recommend Nature Journaling as a means to relieve stress and anxiety. My art teacher in high school would always tell us, ‘When we spend 30 minutes in nature, completely immersed in it, it lowers cortisol and adrenaline, thereby suppressing the sympathetic or fight and flight and consequently enhancing the parasympathetic or rest and recovery.’ I can now truly relate to it.

As an Applied Psych student, I am now able to correlate ART, NATURE, and the MIND in an educated and informed way. In Costa Rica -The Journey, our themes for Nature Journaling and Art were:-

I notice, I wonder, it reminds me of 

To each it’s own

Zoom in, zoom out

Get lost in wonder

Who, what, where, when, how, and why

Mysteries and explanations

Event comic

Poetry of place and moment

Sit spot

Collage

As I wrap up this blog, I completely understand that the pace and rhythm of life in Costa Rica are inherently different from that in New York. It has pushed me to constantly challenge my constant frenzies to do, achieve, and manifest.

My time in Costa Rica taught me the importance of slowing down, connecting with nature, and staying in the present. Long drives over winding roads, the simplicity of walking in a rainforest, the sunshine, and the healing spring waters have truly been a balm for my soul.

As I leave Costa Rica, I make a promise to myself that as the coming days get busy and hectic, I will definitely remember to focus on those aspects that bring me true joy, satisfaction, and a sense of fulfillment. It doesn’t cost anything but pays off immensely towards my mental health……..PURA VIDA…..

Last but definitely not least, I would like to thank Rathi Aunty for introducing me to an opportunity to try something new. Rathi Aunty has been such a blessing in my life. I am grateful for her guidance, teachings, constant encouragement, and support. Her ability to connect with people of all ages truly amazes me. 

I would like to thank Madhu Aunty for organizing such a great trip. I do lack stamina, and at one point was completely fatigued by the intensity of the events during the day, but with constant love and support, I could bounce back. Every time I look back, I feel proud of myself for being able to accomplish a great deal on this trip.

I would also like to thank all the other members for being a lovely travel group. It was indeed a strong cohort of individuals who enjoyed Costa Rica - Travel with a Purpose!

Here’s your opportunity to try something new

Never meditated…..No problem

Not an artist…..not a problem

Using Art as a modality for meditation is a beautiful way to express your thoughts and emotions while achieving a state of mindfulness.

..... EMBRACE THE JOURNEY.....