How does nature affect our mind and body?
| Health tips: The importance of nature | | | Dear Reader,
Have you ever noticed that walking in a forest puts you in a better mood? Or that strolling on the beach or watching a sunset fills you with peace and joy? If so, you’re not alone. Other people experience similar positive outcomes when they spend a day or even a few hours in nature. There’s a reason for it.
Mind Nature has tangible mental effects. One study, for example, found that nature walks reduce rumination — a repetitive thinking or dwelling on negative feelings, emotions, causes and consequences — which can spiral into anxiety or depression. Researchers observed that a 90-minute nature walk quieted neural activity in the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that regulates thoughts, actions and emotions. A similar walk taken in urban settings did not have the same healthy outcome. However, walking through a city park had comparable positive effects, as noted in another study that focused specifically on urban green spaces. | Scientists now understand the neural underpinnings of this phenomenon better. As we admire flowers, watch birds fly or listen to a waterfall splash, our minds enter the so-called state of soft fascination. What happens is this: Initially, the mind is drawn to the fascinating aspects of nature. Then it wanders in various directions. This allows new thoughts or ideas to arise — and possibly even stimulates creativity.
As the brain rests, its ability to focus is renewed, restoring attention. Hard fascination, in which our attention is strongly captured — such as when we are watching TV or working — doesn’t produce the same restorative effect.
Body Nature also has physiological effects. Spending sensory-focused time in a forest or other natural environment — lowers blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormones.
A large study that followed over 100,000 women found that being surrounded with greenery extends life span. Another research effort revealed that greater exposure to green vegetation boosts survival chances after stroke in men and women. Having a hospital window with a view has been shown to improve healing and recovery after surgery, with fewer complications and less pain medication needed.
Nature prescriptions Don’t be surprised if at your next medical appointment you get a prescription—not for pills but for parks. More and more healthcare professionals are including nature therapy in their recommendations. Moreover, it seems that nature’s healing touch can sometimes be nothing short of amazing. |
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