Happy Spring, Students and Families!
As the weather warms up and flowers begin to bloom, it's the perfect time to step outside and enjoy the benefits of nature. Did you know that spending time outdoors can significantly improve your mood and mental well-being? Whether it's a walk in the park, a game of basketball, or just sitting in the sun for a few minutes, being outside can have a positive impact on how you feel.
The Mood-Boosting Power of Nature
Being in nature offers a natural way to recharge and reduce stress. Here’s how spending time outdoors can make you feel better:
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Increased Sunlight = More Energy
Exposure to sunlight helps your body produce Vitamin D, which has been linked to a reduction in feelings of sadness and anxiety. Plus, sunlight can help regulate your sleep cycle, making you feel more energized during the day. -
Physical Activity Releases Endorphins
Going for a run, playing a sport, or even a light walk can trigger the release of endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. These help reduce stress and promote feelings of happiness. -
Fresh Air and Breathing
Taking deep breaths in fresh air can help clear your mind and reduce mental fatigue. The calming effects of being outside can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure, helping you feel more relaxed. -
Connection with Nature
Spending time outside can help you feel more connected to the world around you, boosting your sense of calm and happiness. Studies show that people who spend time in natural environments are often better able to focus and have improved memory retention.
Easy Ways to Get Outside and Boost Your Mood
- Go for a Walk: Take a stroll around your neighborhood or local park. Walk with a friend to catch up and get moving!
- Try Outdoor Activities: Enjoy biking, playing frisbee, or even gardening to get some fresh air and enjoy nature.
- Take Study Breaks Outside: If you're feeling stressed from schoolwork, take a 10-15 minute break outside to recharge.
- Meditate or Practice Yoga Outdoors: Find a quiet spot and focus on your breathing while enjoying the sounds of nature.
The Bottom Line
As we enter this beautiful season of spring, remember that nature is a powerful tool for improving mental health. Whether you're outside for just a few minutes or spending a few hours, take advantage of the sunny days to refresh your mind and body. Your mood will thank you!
Wishing everyone a peaceful and joyful spring season!
Stay healthy and keep shining,
Your BFMS Counseling Team
School Counseling Services at Bellows Falls Middle School:
Middle school is an exciting and challenging time for students, parents and teachers. As students transform from childhood to adolescence, they develop a need to explore their interests and begin connecting learning in the classroom to life and work. They experience frequent fatigue due to rapid growth. They search for their own identity and begin turning more to peers rather than parents for ideas and affirmation which leads to extreme sensitivity to comments from others.
Bellows Falls Middle School counselors provide a proactive program that engages students, school staff, administration and community/family members in efforts to help students achieve success. We strive for early identification and intervention of academic and social/emotional needs which is essential in removing barriers critical for academic achievement.
Direct student services includes: teaching classroom counseling lesson curriculum focused on Vermont State transferrable skills, and providing professional responsive services such as supporting a student during heightened stress, critical change or other situations impeding student success. School counselors do not provide therapy or long-term counseling in schools; however, school counselors are prepared to recognize and respond to student mental health needs and to assist students and families seeking resources. Indirect student services include: interactions with others including referrals for additional assistance and strategies that support student achievement.
Our school counseling services are in alignment with the American School Counselor Association and the Vermont Department of Education.
The ASCA Mindsets & Behaviors are organized into three broad domains:
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Academic Development – Standards guiding school counseling programs to implement strategies and activities to support and maximize each student’s ability to learn.
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Career Development – Standards guiding school counseling programs to help students understand the connection between school and the world of work.
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Social/Emotional Development – Standards guiding school counseling programs to help students manage emotions and learn and apply interpersonal skills.