Mental Health Benefits of Nature

Nature has been shown to positively impact mental health, offering a range of benefits. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains or simply sitting by water, nature has the power to calm the mind and improve mental health.

• Stress Reduction: Being in nature can help reduce cortisol levels and alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. The calming environment and soothing sounds of nature promote relaxation and a sense of peace.
• Improved Mood: Nature exposure is known to enhance mood and increase feelings of happiness and well-being. The natural surroundings can create a positive mindset.
• Enhanced Cognitive Function: Spending time in nature has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better focus, creativity and problem-solving abilities as it provides a break from mental fatigue and can stimulate mental clarity.
• Increased Mindfulness: The sights, sounds and sensations of nature can help cultivate a sense of mindfulness and appreciation for the present moment.

Physical Health Benefits of Nature

Being with nature can also have numerous physical health benefits. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling or even gardening can increase physical activity and provide exposure to fresh air and natural sunlight. Additionally, simply spending time in nature has been linked to a healthier body.

• Enhanced Immune Function: Spending time in the natural environment exposes individuals to beneficial microbes and fresh air, which can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of illnesses.
• Increased Vitamin D Production: Sunlight facilitates the production of vitamin D in the body, which is essential for bone health, immune function and overall well-being.
• Better Sleep Quality: Being in nature and exposed to daylight can regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to improved sleep patterns and better overall sleep quality.
• Boosted Physical Fitness: Activities like walking, hiking and other outdoor experiences encourage physical movement and exercise, improving physical fitness levels, muscle strength and flexibility.

In addition to the health benefits of being in nature, specifically being in or around water is a major factor in overall well-being. Not only does water-based relaxation help to promote positive mental well-being, but it also nurtures physical health through improved circulation and muscle relaxation. 

At Glen Ivy Hot Springs, the connection with nature is increased by the added therapeutic elements of water. The mineral-rich hot springs, long celebrated for their health-beneficial properties, provide a space to soak amidst the open air. With the lush grounds, the water outdoor experience becomes an integral part of a holistic wellness journey. Whether relaxing in the sunlight, soaking in the soothing hot springs or simply taking a walk through the natural surroundings, Glen Ivy Hot Springs offers various things to do outdoors to reconnect with nature. 

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Building Unique Memories

Each new experience fosters a stronger connection by creating shared memories that couples can reflect and reminisce about,  strengthening their bond over time. These memories serve as a reminder of the unique and enduring relationship between them. 

Providing Opportunities for Connection

Navigating challenges or simply enjoying new activities together can result in shared laughter and positive experiences associated with the relationship. Studies have shown that engaging in a new experience as a couple, whether extravagant or simple, triggers the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with love and bonding.

Fighting Relationship Stagnation

Regularly incorporating new experiences into a relationship helps prevent routines from becoming dull and keeps the spark alive. Facing unfamiliar situations together fosters open communication and mutual reliance, building trust and intimacy. This shared journey strengthens the bond between partners, solidifying their connection.

Examples of new experiences couples can try together:

• Taking a cooking class
• Learning a new skill together (like painting)
• Trying new cuisines or restaurants
• Planning a romantic retreat or getaway 

This time of year, Glen Ivy Hot Springs presents multiple seasonal options for a romantic couples wellness retreat. This popular destination provides a variety of activities and workshops for couples to enjoy together, such as Candle Making or Paint & Sip. In addition, partners can explore new flavors through Honey Tastings. For those seeking a relaxing date option, the wellness destination also offers romantic couples massages, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind together. Roses are red, violets are blue, at Glen Ivy Hot Springs, wellness awaits you!

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Staying Hydrated During Summer:

Hydrating is one of the most important things you can do for yourself in the summer. Not only does dehydration affect your physical health leading to headaches, fatigue and dizziness, but it can also impact your mental health as well, like cognitive performance, mood and anxiety levels. 

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration or over-exhaustion. Some tips include drinking a big glass first thing in the morning to help you start your day before you get distracted. Additionally, you can try eating water-rich fruits and vegetables throughout the day like strawberries, watermelon, cucumber and zucchini to help you stay hydrated. The goal is to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day or more, especially when spending extended periods in the sun.

• How to hydrate fast?
  • The fastest way to hydrate is to create a simple electrolyte drink made with a mixture of water, 1/2 teaspoon of salt and two tablespoons of sugar. This mixture is great for restoring fluid balance in the body when fast rehydration is necessary. 

Protecting Skin From the Sun:

Protecting your skin from the sun is important because it helps reduce the harmful effects of UV rays, such as the risk of skin cancer. Additionally, sun safety measures can help prevent painful sunburns, protect your eyes and support a healthy immune system weakened by UV radiation. 

To protect against the harmful effects of the sun, it is essential to take safety measures such as seeking shade or staying indoors during the peak sun hours. If you do want to be outside, try wearing protective clothing like long sleeves, light colors, hats and sunglasses. Applying sunscreen can also minimize the risk of skin damage from the sun. 

• How often should you reapply sunscreen?
  • It is recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or swimming. Applying sunscreen throughout the day is essential in maintaining its effectiveness and protecting your skin.

Staying Cool in the Heat:

If you are looking for things to do during summer it is crucial to keep the weather in mind. Engaging in excessive physical activity in hot weather can have negative effects on the body, leading to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heatstroke. 

If it is a hot day, it is recommended to limit physical activity during the hottest part and plan outdoor activities during the early morning or late afternoon, when it’s cooler. Additionally, choosing the right activities can greatly reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses. For example, opt for a beach or pool day where you can cool off in the water. 

• How to stay cool in summer?
  • Water is a great source of relief. Practice water cooling techniques such as taking cool showers or baths or relaxing in a pool to reduce body temperature. You can also place a damp towel over your neck or wrist or keep a spray bottle nearby to mist as needed.

Remember to stay hydrated, protect your skin from the sun and take necessary precautions to stay cool this summer. By practicing these self-care and safety tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the summer season to the fullest. 

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Take a day for self-care: The benefits of taking a dedicated day for self-care, such as treating yourself to a spa day or engaging in activities that you find enjoyable and relaxing, have been supported by scientific research. Taking time for yourself allows you to recharge and rejuvenate, positively impacting your mental health. Research has shown that engaging in self-care activities can help reduce stress levels, improve mood and enhance overall well-being. 

Connect with others: Human connection is vital for our mental well-being. Research has consistently shown that human connection and social interactions have a significant impact on our mental health. Interacting with loved ones, friends, community members or even support groups can provide emotional and social support, reducing feelings of loneliness and fostering a sense of belonging. This, in turn, is associated with decreased levels of stress, anxiety and depression. 

Practice gratitude: Gratitude practice can shift our focus to the positive aspects of life, redirecting our attention away from negative thoughts and promoting a more optimistic mindset. Research studies have shown that this shift in focus can lead to improved mental health outcomes, including an increase in overall happiness. Taking a few moments each day to actively acknowledge and appreciate the good things in life can have an undeniable impact on our mental health.

Prioritize sleep: Scientific research consistently highlights the importance of good quality sleep for mental health. Adequate sleep is essential for regulating emotions, maintaining cognitive function and supporting overall mental well-being. Research suggests that insufficient sleep or poor sleep quality can increase the risk of mental health issues such as anxiety disorders, depression and mood disturbances. Practice relaxation techniques before bed, go to bed and wake up at consistent times and create a sleep-friendly environment, such as a cool, dark and quiet bedroom. 

Practice yoga meditation: Numerous studies have demonstrated that the benefits of yoga and/or meditation include helping reduce stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. Both focus on the breath and practicing mindfulness, which can lead to improved emotional regulation and mental clarity. Meditation has also been linked to changes in brain structure and function. Engaging in yoga meditation combines physical movements with mindful breathing and has been associated with increased levels of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which plays a role in regulating mood and anxiety. 

Engage in regular physical activity: Exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also your mental health. Engaging in exercise releases endorphins, known as “feel-good” hormones, which contribute to improved mood and overall mental well-being. Exercise also promotes the release of other neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in reducing feelings of anxiety. Additionally, exercise has been linked to improved cognitive function, including enhanced attention, memory and decision-making processes. 

Remember, taking care of your mental health is a marathon, not a sprint. By incorporating these tips into your daily life, you can create a more positive outlook and ideal mental balance, not just during Mental Health Awareness Month, but all year long.

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1. Establish Attainable Fitness Goals:

When setting wellness goals, it is important to be realistic and set achievable targets. Think about your routine and what would work for you. Start by defining specific objectives that resonate with you, considering both short-term and long-term aspirations. For instance, instead of aiming to lose a significant amount of weight rapidly, focus on sustainable goals like improving strength, flexibility or overall well-being. This approach encourages consistency and prevents burnout or disappointment. Additionally, joining a fitness challenge can be a great way to stay motivated and maintain your enthusiasm throughout the year.

2. Embrace the Mind-Body Connection:

Understanding the mind-body connection is fundamental to achieving overall wellness. Physical activities such as yoga, pilates or tai chi can enhance this connection by incorporating mindfulness and deep breathing techniques. Build a routine that not only benefits your physical health but also calms the mind and helps reduce stress. Prioritize activities that bring you joy and make you feel connected with your body.

3. Incorporate Balanced Nutrition:

While it’s important to establish attainable fitness goals, incorporating balanced nutrition will also play a significant role in achieving your overall wellness goals as your nutrition also plays a key role in your physical and mental well-being. A proper diet is necessary for fueling body functions, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and maintaining a healthy weight. Plan to eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. Avoid fad diets or cutting out entire food groups, as these may lead to nutritional deficiencies and can be difficult to stick with in the long run. Don’t forget to allow yourself to enjoy your favorite treats from time to time! 

4. Cultivate Mindful Living:

Wellness encompasses more than just physical health. Cultivating a well-rounded lifestyle involves nurturing your mental and emotional well-being. Practice self-care routines that prioritize time for rest, relaxation and reflection. Engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenation, whether it’s reading, meditating or spending time in nature. By carving out space for mindful living, you’ll enhance overall well-being.

As you begin your fitness journey this new year, remember that a healthy mindset and positive habits are essential for long-term success. By setting realistic and attainable goals you will be able to achieve success in overall wellness. Leave behind the idea of “quick fixes” and instead appreciate the journey towards a healthier life. Here’s to a new year of wellness!

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Holiday stress is something that intimidates many as this intended cheerful time of year approaches and managing this stress is essential for maintaining a healthy routine. Taking time for yourself during the festivities can help lower your stress, whether it’s enjoying a quiet cup of tea or practicing mindfulness through meditation, carving out these moments of self-care can help your overall well-being during this hectic season. Prioritizing your mental health and implementing stress management techniques like nature walks or other physical activities can also make a significant difference in navigating the holiday season.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the holidays, another way to cope could be by considering a  wellness getaway or holiday escape. With such an emphasis on buying gifts for loved ones, remember to also treat yourself during this time. Sending yourself on a spa retreat focused on relaxation and rejuvenation is a great way to remind yourself to slow down and practice some self-care during the holidays. Soaking in the soothing warm waters of hot springs or indulging in spa treatments not only warms the soul during the colder months of the year, but also relieves stress, provides a much-needed reset, and allows you to take on the holiday season with renewed energy.

Though the spirit of the holidays can be lost in the rush, by adding some self-care and wellness practices into this season, it is possible to find balance amidst the chaos. This holiday season, Glen Ivy Hot Springs is reminding you to take care of yourself so that you can appreciate the moments that spark joy and create cherished memories.

Happy, healthy holidays!

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Meditation

Meditation has taken on various forms and has adapted to become a universally accessible and daily practice for most. Meditation is a deeper focus on breathing to help the mind be present and has a multitude of benefits. According to Mindful, the top five reasons to meditate include improvements in lowering stress, better connections, improving focus, reducing brain chatter, and understanding pain. Whether it is brief breathing exercises on your own each day or listening to audio guided meditations, it is something everyone can partake in to positively impact mental and physical health. 

Power of Scent

Aromatherapy uses the power of scent to naturally reduce stress and increase relaxation to create pure tranquility. Essential oils can be a powerful way to boost brain chemistry and create realignment of the mind and body through scent. Healthline shared the benefits of using the holistic healing treatment of aromatherapy which include improving overall sleep quality, reducing stress, agitation, anxiety, treating headaches and migraines and more. Glen Ivy uses aromatherapy treatments to enhance the senses during services like the Tranquility Pro Sleep Ritual body treatment to favor sleep and aid chronic stress.

At Glen Ivy, we understand the importance of taking time to prioritize wellness, especially during the holidays. Give the gift of serenity this year with Glen Ivy Hot Springs’ iconic gift card sale and spa bundles, available through December 24. Guests are also invited to experience wellness for themselves this season with the Winter Warm-up Package at Glen Ivy Hot Springs. For $239 ($260 value), receive a 50-minute massage or facial, a visit to the moisturizing subterranean Grotto, admission to the facilities including the iconic Club Mud, a cozy robe, and hot chocolate or hot apple cider from the Warm-Up Zone.

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Practicing gratitude can have a positive impact on both the body and the mind. Shifting awareness to the present helps to find moments of gratitude in everyday life, leading to increased happiness, generosity, and health. 

This process doesn’t have to take long and can be a simple addition to a daily routine. Registered Psychotherapist and columnist for Mindful Magazine, Elaine Smookler, recommends a five-minute mindful practice. Find somewhere quiet, put on headphones, and listen to this guided practice to cultivate gratitude for life’s small delights through the senses. 

Commit to daily gratitude practice by keeping a mindful gratitude journal. Each day, reflect on all of the things you are grateful for and write them down. This can be a positive event, experience, person or thing and will help in becoming mindful of what may have been taken for granted before. “There is no right way to do it,” states Robert A. Emmons, a professor of psychology at the University of California at Davis. “The important thing is to establish the habit of paying attention to gratitude-inspiring events.”

Social media can be a place to share gratitude and a tool to help create a more positive online atmosphere. Simon Sinek, optimist and best-selling author, uses his social platforms to inspire others through positive quotes, short and informative video clips, and created a “Thank you Thursday” series to spread goodness and gratitude each week, encouraging others to submit thank you videos of their own. 

At Glen Ivy, we recognize the importance of practicing gratitude to achieve goodness in our daily lives. Glen Ivy is quite simply, a hub for happiness and good health, providing a place to relax and put your wellbeing back on track. From taking in the sounds of nature to putting your devices down and enjoying the company of yourself or others, you can cultivate gratitude and receive its benefits each and every day.

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Glen Ivy Hot Springs is pleased to offer sound bath meditation during Evenings at
Glen Ivy. Marsha Pacificar and Anthony Espanet guide the transformative
meditations at Glen Ivy and have joined us to share more about their sound bath
meditations:

How do you describe the Sound Bath experience?

Marsha & Anthony: We like to think of a sound bath as sophisticated adult nap time.
Each participant lays down in the most comfortable position for them, closes their
eyes, and focuses on their breath while we play a beautiful audio paradise and guide
the practical connection to our breath.

What instruments do you use in sound baths?
M & A: Just like yoga, every sound bath is different. We use Crystal Tones Triple
Alchemy Sound Bowls, Rav drums, rain sticks, ocean drums, and chimes to mimic the
restorative properties found in nature. We also use the rarest quality sound bowls
that produce the clearest resonance for the human ear to find rest.

Who can benefit from a Sound Bath?
M & A: Sound bath meditation is a fundamental need for every living person, from
babies to grandparents. If self care and wellness had an order, sound baths with
breath would be the first step to our perfection of relaxation. The sounds are meant to
support breathing slower and deeper in a beautiful way. Slower breath leads to
better brain function and a calmer mind, which creates more connection in our
human experience.

Is there anything to know or prepare before experiencing a Sound Bath?
M & A: Everyone should come with an open mind and know that in our performance
we respect everyone’s way of life and beliefs. This is a self care practice for everyone.
Be prepared to rest, restore, and relax in a new way.

Sound bath meditation is available on most Sundays during Evenings at Glen Ivy. For
more information and reservations, please call 888-453-6489.

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In honor of National Meditation Month in May, Glen Ivy Hot Springs is shining a light on the four most popular meditation styles to explore what resonates with your mindset and skills.

Mantra meditation is the most common form of meditation founded originally in Hindu and Buddism practices. In this form, meditators use a repetitive sound to clear their mind, the most popular sound being “Om”. This type of meditation allows one to focus on their environment, ultimately enhancing awareness.

Similar to mantra, transcendental meditation involves the repeating of words or phrases that are specific to the practitioner. This common form of mediation has been the subject of various scientific studies and has been known to reduce stress levels drastically in practitioners suffering from anxiety.

For those with a more vivid imagination, visualization meditation is the perfect way to reduce stress and find inner peace. In this method, meditators visualize positive scenes or images using all five senses to bring to life every detail. Another form of visualization meditation is visualizing oneself succeeding in a goal to increase motivation and focus.

Focused meditation is a dialed-in practice using any one of the meditator’s five senses. For example, one can count mala beads, focus on breathing, or even stare at a flame. This practice is great for those looking to gain additional focus in their lives.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs’ daily meditation classes are open to beginners and experts alike for a relaxing session led by a well-practiced teacher. For a more intimate experience, The Secret Garden provides the perfect quiet atmosphere for guests to embrace a meditative state during their time at the spa.

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