Things are looking up
Skychology is an easy and accessible way to instantly boost your mood – and it’s completely free. Here, its creator Paul Conway reveals how it’s done
‘‘ Transitional skies are powerful, when you catch dawn or a sunset
Stop whatever you’re doing, and try this. First, look down at your feet and try to feel happy. Next, look straight up at the sky and try to feel sad. What do you notice?
Chances are you’ll have found both combinations hard to achieve. That’s because new research suggests there’s a connection between physically looking up and feeling positive.
However, as a society we tend to naturally look down – at our phones, our desks and the floor. This has a negative effect on our wellbeing, narrowing our horizons and unconsciously lowering our mood. Reversing this, pointing our gaze upwards, has the opposite effect, and can help us to feel happier.
This is where skychology comes in. Created by psychologist and wellbeing coach Paul Conway, it’s the easiest and most accessible wellbeing trend of the year.
“I didn’t have a happy childhood, my dad had a gambling and alcohol addiction. But looking at the sky always gave me a sense of peace,” says Paul.
“And as a psychologist, my own studies have found that I’m not the only one. Where we look and what we’re looking at has a direct impact on how we feel.”
Skychology has the added bonus of being completely free too.
“You don’t even need a garden, you can just look out of the window,” says Paul.
“Looking at a sky, especially a big sky over a wide open space, is an awe-inspiring experience, which induces feelings of inspiration.
“And blue – as the sky often is – is the colour of safety and calm.
“What’s more, the sky is always there, and is available for everyone no matter where they live,” adds Paul.
On top of this, every time you look up at the sky, you will have a completely different experience.
Transitional skies are particularly powerful – when you catch the dawn, watch a sunset, or notice changing weather.
“The sky never gets old. It’s always changing – you’ll never see exactly the same sky twice,” Paul adds.
He believes that our lack of connection with nature and the world around us causes problems in modern society.
“It’s estimated that 45-50 per cent of people currently live in urban areas globally. This increase in urbanisation has meant we are gradually losing our connection with natural spaces.
“But being around nature has huge wellbeing benefits and a positive impact on our mental health.
“And one aspect of nature we can always access is the sky,” adds Paul.
Spring is a great time to try skychology. You can catch dawn easily, skies are changing, and it’s generally more pleasant to be outside.
“Research shows that 90 days is the time it takes to form a habit. So little and often is key to ensure skychology is something you’ll stick with,” says Paul.
“Start by doing it for just 60 seconds a day.”
Try it whenever you are near a window. Look out at the sky, taking a few deep breaths as you do so. Look as far as you can, outwards and up at the sky.
Or why not go for a daily walk? It could be to the shops or the park – wherever is convenient. During your walk, make a decision to stop, notice and appreciate the sky.