Nature's Healing Power

We've all been there before—stressed out from work, feeling run down, and just generally not feeling our best. Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to forget the importance of nature. We get so caught up in our work, our families, and our social lives that we forget to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life. But what if I told you that by spending just a few minutes outside each day, you could improve your mental and physical health? In this blog post, we'll explore the science behind nature's healing power and discuss some of the simplest ways you can incorporate more time outdoors into your busy schedule.

The Science Behind Nature's Healing Power

There's no denying that spending time in nature can make us feel good. But what is it about being outside that has such a positive effect on our health? The answer lies in the science of something called "biophilia." Biophilia is the hypothesis that humans possess an innate tendency to seek connections with other forms of life. In other words, we are hardwired to love nature! I would venture to even more simply say – hard-wired, because we are nature! And, when we spend time in nature, our bodies respond accordingly.

Studies have shown that time spent in natural settings can lower heart rate and blood pressure, reduce inflammation, significantly lower cortisol levels, which are the hormones responsible for stress, increase levels of serotonin, the "happy hormone”, and improve sleep quality. Finally, spending time in nature can also help improve your cognitive function. A study published in PLOS Onefound that walking in a natural environment improved participants' working memory more than walking in an urban environment. So, if you're looking for a way to boost your brainpower, spending time outside may be just what you need.

Sounds pretty amazing, right?

But how do we fit more time outdoors into our busy lives? Below are a few suggestions:

  • Take a walk during your lunch break. Even if you only have 15-20 minutes to spare, getting some fresh air and moving your body will do wonders for your energy levels and mood. Plus, walking is a great way to clear your head and get some exercise!

  • If you work from home, set up a makeshift office in your backyard or on your patio. You'll be surprised at how much more productive you are when you're surrounded by trees and flowers!

  • Make it a point to visit a nearby park or hiking trail on the weekends. Spending a few hours surrounded by greenery will help you recharge for the week ahead.

  • Introduce plants into your home or workspace. Not only do they add some much-needed color and life to your surroundings, but they also help purify the air around you.

Conclusion:

Nature provides us with so many benefits - and yet, we often take nature for granted and the healing power it generates for us. By making a conscious effort to spend more time outdoors, we can improve our mental and physical health in myriad ways. So go ahead—take a walk, breathe in some fresh air, and soak up some Vitamin D! Your mind and body will thank you for it.

Barbara Halcrow

Barbara believes that by offering ourselves more care and self-nourishment we will gain in personal strength and resilience. In this way, we can create swifter, positive changes in our lives, and we can also positively affect the lives of others.

Don’t forget to have your own “recess time” and add play to your day!

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