The Importance of Connecting with Nature on Mental Health

A couple of years ago I filmed a podcast segment with the owner of 44 Tackle Co., Chris Kingree called, “People of Fishing Podcast.” The following video is an excerpt from that particular podcast. It discussed my plans for the future regarding my psychology practice, along with increasing the amount of time I spend fishing. The podcast goes on to discuss an increase in depression and anxiety in our society. Furthermore, I discuss the connection between depression and anxiety with regards to not spending enough time in nature.

Whether we like it or not, humans are animals. We lived in nature in tribes and lived off the land. That was our origin and beginnings. Since then, we have fooled ourselves into thinking we are some sort of civilized creature. We live in large, air-conditioned structures that provide comfort and protection from the elements. We wear shoes on our feet to keep from getting dirty. We wear deodorant not to embarrass ourselves around others by our smell. We shy away from activities that make us sweat, or risk the potential of becoming what we deem as “dirty” or “smelly.” If you don’t believe that we are animals, then just look at what happened during the pandemic! The one item that sold out which triggered the most anxiety among people was none other than “toilet paper.”

If you recall, toilet paper was in high demand. Sold out! Off the shelves! Only available in limited quantities if you were lucky enough to find it. Why? I share this explanation with my patients all the time. The reason why toilet paper was sold out was because it is the line between humans being civilized or devolving back to being an animal. Being able to “clean” ourselves and flush the paper down the toilet signified a level of civilized dignity that was threatened by the pandemic. At the end of the day, without A/C, electricity, comfort, and yes…toilet paper. We are nothing more than filthy animals.

So, what happens when you take an animal out of nature, out of its natural environment? It starts to behave in an erratic or negative manner, and that’s part of what has occurred to us humans. Yes, we have evolved over thousands of years, but we still need to have a connection to nature. We don’t have to rip off our clothes and go live in the woods eating berries and fish, but we do need a healthy balance of getting into nature. Activities such as going for a walk, a hike; or like me, fishing.

For us fisherman, it’s more than just catching a fish. It’s about getting out and connecting to nature. For some, it’s a spiritual experience that connects them to memories of their childhood, family, and friends. For others, it’s simply getting away from society and the office to recharge in nature. Whatever our reason is, it’s incredibly important for our mental health to connect with nature in some manner.

As for me; this podcast was filmed about three years ago and I can safely say that I’ve followed through on what was discussed in the podcast. I’ve hired on more doctors and staff which allows me additional time on the water. I’ve drawn more secure boundaries between me and the practice which helps to “leave work behind.” I’ve recommitted myself to the sport of tournament bass fishing and spent 2024 improving my skills so that I can have a great 2025 season! So much more to come!!

Previous Post
Bad boat positioning is costing you fish!
Next Post
My Favorite Chatterbait Rod: The Duckett Zeus 7’3 Medium Heavy rod is King

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Fill out this field
Fill out this field
Please enter a valid email address.
You need to agree with the terms to proceed