it’s official- spending time in nature is good for you
Instinctively, we know how good it feels to get outside and immerse ourselves in nature. The feeling of grass under your toes, that deep breath of fresh air. The moment when you’re on the top of the lookout, staring at the horizon. Unfortunately, the modern lifestyle doesn’t always allow for time spent outside.
Spending time in nature and reaping health benefits is really important. The practice isn’t new-age hippie healing, there is actually increasing evidence to support the wellness habit of stepping into a green space. The benefits go beyond increased vitamin D (from sunlight exposure), physical activity and social interaction. Time spent in nature has demonstrated to be an effective tool for enhancing mood, improving self-esteem and supporting the reduction of anxiety.
Research has also confirmed that going for a walk in nature can improve working memory, creative thinking and focus. Furthermore, time spent in nature reduces cortisol, often known as the ”stress hormone”. The benefits have been established across varying time durations and settings. Whether you head out on a bush walk, set off camping or eat your lunch in the local park you’ll be receiving the benefits.The journal of Environmental Research published a meta-analysis demonstrating that individuals who spent more time in nature reduced their risk of a number of chronic illnesses.
Some of the health benefits of green space exposure included reduced diastolic blood pressure, salivary cortisol, heart rate, and incidence of stroke and type II diabetes. The findings suggested that creating, regenerating and maintaining accessible green spaces and street greenery may form part of a multi-faceted approach to improve a wide range of health outcomes.
How can you implement nature into your everyday modern life? Get yourself some indoor plants, go for a hike, take your exercise outdoors, pack a picnic and ditch your regular brunch spot, start a veggie patch, head to the local park on your lunch break or pitch tent and get away for the weekend.
