Why going outside is good for you, even when it's freezing - Post Reports Recap

Podcast: Post Reports

Published: 2026-01-24

Duration: 18 min

Summary

This episode explores the mental health benefits of spending time outdoors, even in cold weather. Experts discuss how nature can reduce stress and improve mood, while also addressing the need for therapists to consider outdoor therapy options.

What Happened

The episode begins with a personal anecdote from the host, who struggles to find motivation to go outside in the unusually cold weather of Washington, D.C. Despite the challenges, the host embarks on a walk in Rock Creek Park with clinical psychologist Jessica Maginson, who emphasizes the importance of outdoor therapy. Maginson highlights that many people associate therapy with traditional settings like offices or screens, but there is a growing movement among psychologists to bring therapy into nature, which can benefit both clients and therapists.

Maginson explains that research supports the idea that spending time in nature can significantly reduce stress levels and improve mental health. She mentions the concept of 'attention restoration,' which suggests that being in natural environments helps us focus better and enhances our cognitive functions. Even short bursts of outdoor time, like just 10 minutes, can yield positive effects. The host shares a relatable experience of taking her toddler and dog outside, revealing how the cold walk ultimately lifted their spirits and made the home feel cozier afterwards. The episode concludes with insights from Dr. Heidi Schreiber Pan, who discusses her initiative to incorporate nature into therapy, noting that Scandinavian cultures exemplify the benefits of daily outdoor exposure, regardless of weather.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What are the mental health benefits of spending time outside?

Jessica Maginson highlights that spending time in nature can significantly reduce stress and lower cortisol levels, which is our stress hormone. Engaging in outdoor activities, like walking, can also help improve our mood and sleep quality. This aligns with a growing body of research that supports the idea that nature has a restorative effect on our mental health.

How does outdoor therapy help therapists?

According to Maginson, outdoor therapy not only benefits clients but also helps therapists who have been experiencing high levels of burnout. Being in nature can provide a refreshing change from the traditional therapy setting, allowing therapists to recharge and reconnect with their passion for helping others.

What is the attention restoration theory?

The attention restoration theory suggests that spending time in nature allows for a type of engagement that captures our attention without overwhelming us. Maginson describes this as 'soft fascination,' where we can appreciate natural surroundings while still being able to converse and think clearly. This kind of experience serves as a mini mindfulness break for our brains.

What practices do Scandinavians use to embrace winter?

Dr. Heidi Schreiber Pan mentions two key concepts from Scandinavian culture: Frei Luchtslieben, which encourages going outside every day for at least 10 minutes, regardless of the weather, and hygge, which involves creating a cozy atmosphere at home after being outdoors. These practices contribute to higher happiness scores in Scandinavian countries, even during long winters.

What challenges do therapists face in implementing outdoor therapy?

Heidi Schreiber Pan points out that while more therapists are interested in outdoor therapy, there are significant challenges. There is a lack of training available for clinicians in this area, and many people may have a limited view of nature, associating it only with picturesque parks or scenic landscapes rather than the urban environments where therapy often occurs.