Existential Dread in the Context of BC's Unique Lifestyle
Noticing yourself feeling angsty? Creating a routine that boosts your mood might be as simple as walking out your front door. Research shows that even in an urban setting, getting outside and away from screens can improve your attention, lower stress and cortisol levels, better your mood, and increase access to empathy and a sense of cooperation. For those of us who live in BC—especially in the Lower Mainland, where we benefit from a mild climate year-round—nature can be one of the best strategies to combat existential existential anxiety and dread.
The Lifestyle of BC
British Columbia boasts a lifestyle and culture that is in many ways inspired by the natural beauty of the province. BC residents are known for their healthy living and outdoor recreational activities, including running, hiking, and swimming. Several well-known outdoor and lifestyle companies are based in the Lower Mainland, including Arc’teryx, Mountain Equipment Co-op, and LuluLemon. Communities like Squamish are home to many "weekend warriors"—folks who live there to prioritize access to nature and pursue activities like backcountry skiing, mountain biking, and longer backpacking trips.
Even for those folks who wouldn’t consider themselves outdoor enthusiasts, taking advantage of the access we have to free and beautiful outdoor environments like Stanley Park, Pacific Spirit Park, or one of the many public beaches can bring an increased sense of calm and grounding. Sometimes, it can be as simple as reminding yourself that these options are available. Better yet, schedule time with friends for walks or runs outdoors, rain or shine, and notice how your ability to be present in the moment shifts with time and space away from technology.
How BC’s Lifestyle Can Influence Existential Dread
The more time we spend on social media, the more we are subjected to comparison. Influencers post beautifully curated homes and experiences, and comparing ourselves increases dissatisfaction with our own lives. Taking ourselves outdoors—even to a local park or beach—helps ground us in the present moment and refocus on what is right in front of us and real in our lives.
Folks who live in the northern hemisphere are much more likely to experience seasonal changes in mood due to changing seasons. Spending time outdoors, even on a rainy, gray day, can still boost your mood and help shift you out of an anxious mindset. As we move into fall, it is important to think about how your routine can support your mood as the seasons change. Incorporate regular walks into your week, and try to get outside on your lunch break—even for a quick walk around the block, especially on a sunny day.
For those of us living in more remote areas, it is easy to feel isolated. Developing a reciprocal relationship with nature is an important way to maintain a meaningful connection with your environment. Having a pet that provides companionship and also gets you outdoors regularly can also be a great way to add more nature to your coping.
The Role of Nature and Outdoor Activities
There are many therapeutic benefits to BC’s natural environment. We know that time in nature reduces blood pressure and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which allows us to feel calmer and more grounded. Being in a relaxed state also helps boost our immune system. Nature therapy has been shown to reduce anxiety and symptoms of depression, as well as diminish signs of stress, including reducing cortisol levels. Exercising in nature has also been shown to improve focus and quality of life for folks who experience ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
Local Resources in BC for Managing Existential Dread
There are many opportunities to connect with others outdoors in ways that help manage your existential dread. Local running clubs like Flight Crew or East Van Run Crew meet year-round. There are also many local hiking clubs or ski/snowboard clubs during the winter.
For more research on how increased screen time heightens anxiety and stress—and how time in nature can actively combat that—a great read is the book Stolen Focus by Johann Hari.
You can also ask your therapist if they’d be willing to offer walking sessions. Spending time in nature can add an additional positive impact to your therapy sessions. Here at the Commons Wellness Collective, Nicole offers Walking Sessions for those who live locally in the Vancouver area.
