Summer, Naturally!

The vibrant energy of summer in Colorado invites us to step outside and soak it all in. Long sunny days and warm nights offer the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience a natural mood boost. At Wholeness Center, we offer integrative mental health tools such as incorporating mindfulness practices with outdoor activities. It is a powerful way to elevate your well-being throughout the summer months.

Embrace the Summer Vibes in Colorado

Fort Collins is nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Colorado, providing a wealth of options for nature enthusiasts. Why not explore these local gems while incorporating mindfulness and meditation techniques? Here are some of our favorite (local) ways to improve your mood and mental health while enjoying summer naturally:

Explore Nature with Mindfulness

Take a hike:

Combine trails like Horsetooth Mountain Open Space or Lory State Park with moments of quiet reflection. Visit Soapstone Prairie Natural Area and engage in mindful walks amidst vibrant wildflowers. Find a scenic spot to practice meditation, allowing the beauty of nature to wash over you.

Bathe in the forest (Shinrin-yoku):

Immerse yourself in the calming atmosphere of Roosevelt National Forest or tune into the sights and sounds of nature while bird watching in areas like Fossil Creek Reservoir Natural Area. Practice mindful walking, focusing on the forest environment’s sights, sounds, and smells. Breathe deeply and let the tranquility of nature soothe your mind.

Yoga by the Lake:

Join a guided yoga session at Horsetooth Reservoir, surrounded by stunning mountain views. Breathe, flow, and connect with your body and surroundings in this rejuvenating practice.

Dip your toes in the water:

The gentle sounds of flowing water have a powerful calming effect. Take a day trip to Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, or find a spot by the Cache la Poudre River. Meditate while focusing on the sound of the water, allowing it to guide you into a state of relaxation.

Local Spots to Boost Your Well-being

Not everyone is lucky enough to live in Colorado. The good news is you can enjoy the positive impacts of mindfulness and nature on your mental health – wherever you live. Dr. Mary Rondeau, ND, offers the following suggestions for incorporating nature throughout your summer adventures:

1. Observe Nature: While lying under the night sky, focus on a specific element of nature. Immerse yourself in observing this element, using all your senses. For example, gaze at the vastness of the night sky under a blanket of stars. The awe-inspiring view can invoke feelings of peace and enhance your mood.
2. Be Mindful:  Locate the best spot for viewing wildflowers. As you walk amongst them, focus on each step, feeling the ground beneath your feet. Notice the rhythm of your breath and synchronize it with your steps. Observe the environment without judgment. Focus on the delicate details of each bloom and appreciate the beauty surrounding you.
3. Scan Your Body: Tune into the sights and sounds of nature while bird-watching. Observe the various bird species and focus on the calming chirps and melodies. Periodically pause and perform a body scan, focusing on any areas of tension or relaxation. Breathe deeply and release any tension with each exhale.
4. Engage Your Senses: Immerse yourself in natural waters while practicing calming meditations. Engage all your senses – feel the water against your skin, listen to its sounds, and soak up the sun’s warmth. Close your eyes for a moment and focus solely on these sensory experiences.
5. Practice Gratitude: Capture nature’s beauty mindfully by taking a photography walk. Use your camera to focus on specific details, slowing down and appreciating the intricate world around you. Reflect on the beauty of your surroundings and the opportunity to experience nature. Mentally list things you are grateful for in this moment.

Boost Your Mental Health Naturally

Want to boost your mental health naturally? Wholeness Center offers integrative mental health strategies that empower you to reclaim and restore your life. If you or someone you know is seeking healing and wholeness, please contact the Wholeness Center at 970-221-1106 to learn more.

Serving Ft. Collins, Windsor, and Johnstown, Wholeness Center offers mental health repair and restoration.