How Can Nature Help Us?

Emotional Health, Health & Wellness Article, Mental Health, Physical Health

And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” ~Unknown

Researchers are beginning to find scientific evidence

Our ancestors intuitively knew that being in nature helps reduce anxiety and stress, and increases our mental capacity, creativity, and our ability to connect with others.

Recent findings on how nature improves our brains encouraging us to spend more time in nature in order to lead healthier, happier, and more creative lives.

Here are some of the ways being in nature positively affects our brains and bodies:

Being in nature decreases stress

Any physical activity can reduce stress and anxiety. Physical activity outside in nature may give you a bigger impact. In a recent study, participants who walked in a forest versus an urban setting had significantly lower heart rates, better moods and less anxiety. Researchers conclude from looking at the data from several studies that just looking out the window at nature can relieve stress.

Nature’s impact also increases creativity and relieves mental fatigue

Just being in nature can help your prefrontal cortex recover from multi-tasking and technology overload, allowing the brain to be more creative and be better problem solvers.

Nature can make you happier

One study, completed in 2015, concluded that those who walked in nature had better short-term memory, less anxiety and more positive emotions than those who walked in an urban setting.

Being in nature is similar to meditation. When you meditate, the brain releases endorphins, known as ‘runners high,’ which make you feel happier. When we are happier, more relaxed and less stressed, we interact better with others. Relationships are improved.

Wrap-up:

The next time you have a chance to go outside, whether it’s in a rural setting or an urban setting, leave your technology in your pocket. Better yet, leave your cell phone at home or in the office. Take time to appreciate nature. Try to find something that you have not seen before. If you are in an urban setting, look for nature, like trees, flowers or birds. Just a few minutes outside will benefit you greatly. You will be happier and less stressed.

For more information on nature and creativity, read my article “Is It Good To Be Bored?”