It’s quietly improving women’s mental health.

For working mums – especially those running a business – life is a constant juggle. Between clients, kids and everything in between, taking time for yourself often sits at the bottom of the to-do list – if it makes the list at all. Realistically, when was the last time you truly switched off?

New Australian research suggests that claiming small moments for ourselves matters – far more than we think. And one surprisingly simple habit is proving to boost women’s mental health, social connections and longevity.

And yes – it’s as good for business as it is for the soul.

Spending time walking in nature

Instead of grabbing a coffee to pep up, the study suggests you should reach for your walking shoes instead – and better yet, invite some friends to join you. But rather than a brisk lap of the neighbourhood block, women should be soaking up some nature – together.

The study by environmental wellbeing group People and Nature in partnership with Griffith University tracked more than 400 women who took part in a 12-week nature-based walking program with Coasttrek.

The results were an average 5.6 per cent boost in mental wellbeing, with participants reporting the benefits lasted well beyond the program.

And this wasn’t limited to just feeling better.

Researchers also estimated the monetary value of having improved mental health to be around $4,000 per participant – a figure that factored in reduced stress, fewer sick days and clearer decision-making for those in leadership positions.

Why nature and not the gym?

We all know exercise is good for our physical and mental health, but nature walking with other like-minded women delivers a little extra.

It’s a combination of endorphin-releasing physical activity and social connection. Pair this with a nice view – say the coast or bush, and it’s food for the soul, too.

Di Westaway OAM, founder of Coastrek and Wild Women on Top, says nature remains one of Australia’s most under-prescribed mental health tools.

“Coastrek women have always known that happiness and health are amplified when you challenge yourself and connect with others outdoors. The right walk, with the right women, in the right place, can truly change your life.”

More and more women are embracing nature walking with female participation in bushwalking and hiking across Australia growing from around 800,000 women in 2015 to 3.8 million in 2024–25.

And the fastest-growing group? Women aged 35 to 64 – many of them mums and business owners balancing leadership, family and long workdays.

Good for you, good for your drive

“If you want to boost your well-being, strengthen your mental health and even add years to your happiest life, “ says  Westaway, “here’s the prescription: grab your girlfriends, lace up your walking shoes, and hit the trail.”

For women heading up a small business, where personal wellbeing and professional performance are deeply connected, a walk in nature with other women might be the secret to doing it all – well, a little better than you feel you are!

Maybe it should be a bullet point on your to-do-list, after all?

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