Oklahoma Nature: Benefits Mental Health
- Misti Luke, LCSW
- May 20, 2018
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 29
Originally published in 2018. Updated in 2025 to reflect current research and highlight local resources.
Looking for a natural method to enhance your mental and emotional well-being in Oklahoma? Consider nature.
Studies indicate that your environment can positively influence your mood and sleep patterns. Being in nature can alleviate stress and reduce symptoms of depression.
Explore the Beauty of Hochatown, Oklahoma
Few places in the southern US can match the raw, majestic beauty found in the small community of Hochatown, Oklahoma, nestled in the Kiamichi Mountains.
Hochatown is situated just minutes north of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and boasts Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow Lake, along with numerous other outdoor attractions, many of which are either free or very affordable.
This means you don't need to spend a lot of money as you begin enhancing your emotional and mental well-being in Hochatown.
For instance, Beavers Bend State Park provides excellent hiking trails for those wanting to incorporate physical activity into their self-care regimen.
Science-Backed Reasons Nature Improves Mental Health
Regarding self-care, a study led by Stanford University found that individuals who walked for 90 minutes in nature, as opposed to those who walked in a busy urban environment, exhibited reduced activity in a part of the brain linked to depression.
How Sunlight and Fresh Air Support Mood and Sleep
If a 90-minute hike isn't your style, just relaxing outside to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine can also benefit your emotional and mental well-being.
Exposure to sunlight influences a crucial hormone in the body known as melatonin, which diminishes when we are in the sun. This reduction aids in waking up in the morning.
In contrast, when there is no sunlight, melatonin levels increase, potentially causing feelings of lethargy or sleepiness for many.
Exposing yourself to sunlight at the appropriate time of day can improve your sleep at night, which naturally enhances your mood, according to Dr. Michael Breus, PhD, The Sleep Doctor™.
Moreover, inhaling fresh air can increase oxygen levels in your brain, thus enhancing serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter in the brain. Serotonin significantly influences mood changes.
Luckily, the fresh air in Hochatown has a delightful scent, emanating from the tall, slender pines along the Mountain Fork River banks.
If you're fortunate enough to live and work just minutes from this outdoor paradise in Southeastern Oklahoma, like I do, consider making more frequent trips to Hochatown to enhance your mental and emotional health routine.
Hochatown Cabins and Local Getaways
For the non locals, Hochatown boasts over 1,200 privately owned cabin rentals at varying price points, including this quaint little cottage, pictured above, known as "Tall Oaks" =of Kiamichi Cabins.
Nature Is a Supplement — Not a Substitute
While time spent outdoors should not replace your prescribed mental health plan, it can be an essential part of an existing plan. Engaging with nature offers a multitude of benefits that can complement traditional therapeutic practices.
The sights, sounds, and overall ambiance of natural environments can significantly enhance mood, reduce stress, and provide a sense of calm that is often hard to achieve in the hustle and bustle of daily life. Scientific studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can lead to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, and can even improve cognitive function and emotional resilience.
Ultimately, taking control of your emotional and mental health requires a proactive approach. This means being an active participant in your own wellness journey rather than a passive recipient of care. It involves making informed decisions, setting goals, and seeking out experiences that contribute positively to your well-being. By recognizing the importance of integrating diverse strategies into your mental health toolkit, you can create a more holistic approach to your emotional and psychological wellness.
One proactive step is to consult with your primary care doctor or a licensed mental health therapist about incorporating “nature” into your wellness routine. This conversation can lead to valuable insights and personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs.
Nature therapy, often referred to as ecotherapy, can be discussed as an adjunct to conventional therapies, helping to bridge the gap between physical activity, mindfulness, and emotional healing. Once a licensed healthcare professional approves, consider planning a trip to the beautiful Hochatown, Oklahoma.
This picturesque destination is known for its stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes, and lush forests, providing the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation and reflection. Whether you choose to hike the scenic trails, engage in water activities, or simply relax in a peaceful setting, the natural beauty of Hochatown can serve as a powerful ally in your journey toward better mental health.
Your mental and emotional health will thank you. By embracing the therapeutic effects of nature, you are not only enhancing your existing mental health plan but also fostering a deeper connection with the environment around you.
This connection can lead to increased mindfulness, greater appreciation for the world, and an overall sense of well-being that permeates all aspects of life. Remember, while nature is not a replacement for professional help, it is a valuable supplement that can enrich your mental health experience and promote a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Since 2014, Misti Luke, LCSW has been running a small private counseling practice in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, providing both in-person and online counseling, clinical assessments, and consultation services. Her office is located twelve minutes from the entrance of Beavers Bend State Park. To get in touch or arrange a consultation, email misti@mistiluke.com