What strategies help overcome stress caused by a change in environment?

Changing your environment can be a cause of stress, but it can also be an effective way to overcome it. Calgary is a city of unique opportunities for those who want to find balance and peace through a change of space and environment. Below is a detailed overview of proven strategies.

Nature therapy and green spaces

Use parks and natural areas

  • Fish Creek Provincial Park — Canada's second largest urban park. More than 200 species of birds, rich ecosystems, picnic areas, and recreational facilities.
  • Prince's Island Park — a green island of tranquility in the city center, ideal for short breaks and recharging.
  • Nature walks (Queensland study: at least 30 minutes in a park each week for a noticeable effect).

The province's first mental health park

  • Brawn Family Foundation Rotary Park — Alberta's first mental health park.
  • Mazes, physical activity areas, sensory corners, quiet spaces.
  • Specially selected plants and natural materials to reduce emotional stress.

Winter strategies: adapting to the climate

Health walks and winter nature

  • Weaselhead Flats, Griffith Woods, Nose Hill Park, Ralph Klein Park are popular locations ideal for winter walks and mindful presence.
  • Even walking in the cold increases stress resilience.

Winter activities for positive emotions

  • Skiing and skating (WinSport, Bowness Park, Glenmore Park).
  • Ice biking, winter picnics, penguin watching at the Calgary Zoo.

Forest therapy and nature

Professional and individual therapy

  • Organizations such as Wild Results offer forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) and group walks with psychotherapeutic support.
  • Walk-and-Talk therapy — a combination of classic and natural psychotherapy that helps you relax deeply and get rid of anxiety.

Modifying your home and work environment

  • Adding plants, good lighting, and quiet corners (a relaxation area, a place for meditation) can significantly reduce anxiety.
  • It is advisable to create a home “sanctuary” with natural materials, aquariums, minimal noise, cleanliness, and order.

Social support and communities

  • CMHA Calgary, Distress Centre Calgary, SupportWorks — organizations with 24-hour support, groups, educational programs, and accessible counseling.
  • Groups for women, men, children, youth, as well as specialized programs for immigrants and newcomers (e.g., CIWA).

Use of water and “blue spaces”

  • Walks along the Bow River (and other urban waterways) calm the nervous system with the sound of water and beautiful scenery.
  • Rafting, ice fishing, and ice skating are ways to relax and restore emotional balance.

Stress management technologies

  • Togetherall — an online mental health support platform.
  • Mobile apps for meditation, emotion diaries, interactive maps with green routes, and event search.

Seasonal strategies and gradual adaptation

Summer

  • Picnics, group activities, socializing outdoors.

Winter

  • Maximize daylight, take regular winter walks, and participate in seasonal activities.

Practical tips for step-by-step implementation

  • First 2 weeks: Assess sources of stress, explore natural areas, join a support group.
  • Next 2 weeks: Go for short walks, make your home more welcoming.
  • 2-3 months: Increase time spent outdoors, participate in nature therapy, involve family or friends.

Special approach for different groups

  • Families with children: visit parks for family walks, children's programs, playgrounds, and sports fields.
  • Seniors: walks in accessible areas, animal-assisted therapy.
  • Immigrants: culturally sensitive support, language groups, gradual introduction to nature and the community.

Conclusions

Calgary is a city where vast natural resources and community support come together to truly improve mental health through environmental change. Accessible parks, innovative solutions, year-round programs, multiculturalism, and professional help all form a system that allows people to effectively manage stress and find resources within themselves and around them.

Harness the power of change and Calgary's opportunities for health, peace, and inspiration!