Smiles, Sunshine & a Splash of Sanity: Why Nature Is Our Favorite Co-Therapist

May 2025

Hey, sunshine! ☀️

It’s your favorite therapist duo, the TheraSisters, here to sprinkle a little joy into your day — and maybe a little dirt under your fingernails (the healing kind, promise).

We’re big fans of therapy (obviously), but we’ve got a secret weapon that’s been in business way longer than either of us: Mother Nature.

Healing doesn’t always happen on a couch. Sometimes it shows up in your local park, on a walk with your dog, or while you're flopped in the grass watching clouds do their weird little dance.

Let’s talk about why getting outside — even for just 10 minutes — might be one of the best things you can do for your mental health:

☀️ 1. Sunshine = Instant Mood Upgrade

Sunlight helps boost serotonin — aka your brain’s “happy juice.” Just a little natural light can improve your mood, energy, and sleep. It’s like nature’s version of a good playlist or an extra shot of espresso.
(P.S. We still fully support espresso.)

🌿 2. Nature Is Basically the OG Mindfulness Coach

Being outside gives your brain a chance to unplug from all the buzzing, pinging, and overthinking. You don’t have to go full forest-bathing mode (unless that’s your thing — in which case, carry on with your tree-hugging self). Even a stroll around a city park counts. Notice the colors. The smells. The people-watching. Yes, even the squirrel doing squats in the trash can — he’s doing his best.

😄 3. Smiles Come More painless in Nature

Have you ever giggled at a goose? Laughed at how loud ducks actually are in person? Watched your friend try to sit on a picnic bench and totally miss? Nature brings out our inner 5-year-old in the best way — playful, curious, a little messy. That’s healing, too.

🧠 4. Movement Satisfies Mood (and We’re Not Talking Marathons)

You don’t have to hike a mountain to get the mental health benefits of being outdoors. A five-minute walk, some barefoot-in-the-grass time, or just sitting on a bench with your iced tea can help your brain regulate stress, process emotions, and chill the heck out.

🌈 Here’s Your Gentle Nudge

Your healing journey doesn’t have to be all worksheets and deep talks (though we love those, too). Sometimes it starts with a breath of fresh air and a little sunshine on your face. Nature reminds us that we’re already part of something good — messy, beautiful, ever-growing.

So this week, take yourself outside. Go soak in some sun. Invite a friend. Watch the birds. Smile at strangers. Let the light in — literally and metaphorically.

🎧 Want More Giggles & Glimmers?

Catch our podcast, TheraSistersStL

Find us on Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, and YouTube - where we get real, silly, and sometimes a little unhinged (in the best way). Search TheraSistersStL wherever you listen.

📬 Don’t Miss a Dose of Joy

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With glimmers & giggles,
Amy & Katheryn
Your TheraSisters

Amy Camp Ryan, LPC

Amy is a licensed professional counselor in Missouri. Amy uses cognitive behavioral techniques along with mindfulness to support and guide her clients. Amy helps women in transition who may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

https://www.urbanferncoactive.com
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