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Nature’s Role in Mental Resilience

The Noise of Misunderstanding

In today’s world, the discussion around mental health has become increasingly prominent, especially among younger audiences. However, with this increased focus, there’s also a growing concern: the misinterpretation of what mental health and well-being truly mean. Social media, with its overuse of terms like “human right,” “mental health,” and “well-being,” often muddies the waters, leading many of us down a path of confusion rather than clarity. It’s easy to get lost in the noise and lose sight of the essence of these concepts.

Chasing a False Ideal

The Oxford dictionary offers a tidy definition of well-being: “the state of being healthy, happy, or prosperous; physical, psychological, or moral welfare.” But how realistic is it to sustain this state at every moment? The pursuit of constant happiness and prosperity can feel overwhelming, and often, it seems unattainable. This pressure to always be “well” can lead to feelings of inadequacy when we inevitably fall short.

Two years ago, I found myself grappling with this very issue. My then-coach, now CEO, asked me, “Are you ready to walk the path of truth?” At that time, I was entrenched in depression, unsure of what “truth” he was referring to. Was it the secret to success in the ESG market? Or perhaps the uncomfortable reality of our limited control over climate change?

Today, I understand that the “path of truth” is about acceptance—of things as they are and, most importantly, of myself. This journey towards self-acceptance has been challenging, as it is often easier to recognize flaws and strengths in others than in oneself. Yet, this realization has been crucial in abandoning the habit of defining my well-being by external actions and expectations.

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Embracing Equanimity and Unlearning

Instead of striving for an impossible state of perpetual well-being, I shifted my focus to building resilience and acceptance. Cultivating equanimity—a state of mental calmness and composure—has become my foundation. This practice, rooted in Vipassana meditation, has taught me to observe my thoughts without judgment, leading to a healthier mindset.

During a period of deep depression, I was consumed by fear and trapped in a cycle of rumination. Negative thoughts had become habitual, making life feel more complicated and overwhelming. The frustration of hurting those around me pushed me to seek change, but breaking free from this mental trap wasn’t easy.

Inspired by Dr. Qing Li’s “Shinrin-yoku” (Forest Bathing), I embarked on a silent retreat in a rainforest treehouse. Over three days, I immersed myself in nature, practicing techniques to calm my mind. The first two days brought an awareness of my pain, anxiety, and depression, but without the pleasure I had hoped for—only a sense of calm.

On the third day, however, something shifted. Meditating by a waterfall in complete silence, I felt a lightness that had eluded me for so long. The negativity lifted, and for the first time, I opened up to my parents about my struggles, breaking a long-held habit of bottling up my emotions.

Reconnecting with Our True Nature

This experience taught me the power of unlearning—shedding old habits and cultivating new, healthier ones. This process is vital for overcoming depression and other mental health challenges. In our chaotic, comparison-driven world, finding silence and space to look inward is essential. The root of many mental health issues lies in systems that create chaos and disconnect us from the natural world, leaving us feeling lost.

To break free from the cycle of mental illness, we must learn to reconnect with nature and, in doing so, reconnect with ourselves. Lasting resilience and well-being are achievable, but they require us to reforge our bond with the natural world and embrace the simple, yet profound, truths it offers.

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Ruyi is a dedicated sustainability practitioner and nature coach, specializing in forest bathing techniques that guide people to reconnect with nature and themselves. Her journey with forest bathing started in 2021 as a personal pursuit to enhance her mental health and well-being. After successfully overcoming depression through these practices, she now passionately shares her expertise with friends, community members, and the public. Ruyi believes that fostering resilience, compassion, and mindfulness in individuals is essential for achieving personal mental wellness and contributing to a more sustainable future. Connect with Ruyi at https://www.ruyiteh.com/