The Benefits of Nature: How Spending Time Outdoors Can Improve Your Mental Health
How spending time in nature can make you happier and healthier, without the stress
When I was in college, I spent lots of time on the school’s walking trails. It became an important part of my life. I felt free to walk and breathe deeply, while seeing and hearing all the beautiful sights and sounds around me. This simple activity made me feel calm and relaxed.
It’s no surprise then, that some studies suggest spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety, depression, and boosts your mood, while helping you sleep better, improve your mental health, and live longer.
Research has shown that taking walks in the woods can help people cope with negative emotions like sadness and anxiety. One study from the Netherlands found that people who spend time walking in forests experience a reduction in their feelings of anger and tension.
In addition, another study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that spending time outside helps people stay mindful and avoid dwelling on negative thoughts and feelings.
Another reason to head out into nature is the fact that it can have a restorative effect on your body. A 2008 study published in the journal Frontiers in Human Neuroscience discovered that time spent in nature can reduce the levels of stress hormone cortisol in our bodies, while increasing the release of endorphins that lift our mood and boost our energy.
Another study from the University of Michigan even concluded that spending time in nature increases our serotonin levels by around 20%. Serotonin plays an important role in regulating our mood and our perception of things.
As a result, it appears that spending time in nature can benefit your physical health too. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that individuals who regularly spent time in nature had stronger immune systems than people who didn’t.
So why don’t more people take advantage of this opportunity to spend time in nature?
It’s true that people are increasingly busy, and often don’t take the time to relax outdoors. But that doesn’t mean you need to suffer. Instead, you can find time to enjoy nature on your own terms.
There are plenty of ways you can get back to nature, without going far. Simply sitting down and watching the clouds roll by over the mountains is a fantastic start. As the sun sets, watch the light slowly fade and the colors deepen.
The next day, you could go for a morning walk or simply head to the nearest park. There are countless things to see and do out there, so take your time and find something you enjoy. How do you stand out and attract premium clients when they could hire someone else for a fraction of the price?
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