Breadcrumb Links
Opinion Health Column
Published on May 31, 2024 • 2 minute read
Photo: Maridub/Getty Images
Article Contents
As the weather gets warmer and summer approaches, spending time in nature is a great way to enjoy the season.
Ad 2
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but article continues below.
Article Contents
Did you know that a growing body of research shows that spending time in nature and enjoying urban green spaces can be good for your mental health? It's a low-cost and highly effective way to improve both your physical and psychological health.
Increased happiness
A study conducted by Bratman and colleagues (published in Science Advances ) found evidence that exposure to nature increases feelings of happiness, well-being, positive social interactions, and a sense of meaning and purpose in life.
Reduce anxiety, stress and depression
A study by Meredith et al. (2020) examined 14 published studies comparing participants living in urban areas with those living in natural environments and found that environments rich in nature can help reduce psychological distress.
Ad 3
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but article continues below.
Article Contents
The study found that spending at least 10 minutes sitting or walking in a variety of natural environments had a significant positive impact on participants' mental health.
Cognitive benefits
Research by Schertz and Berman (2019) also shows that exposure to nature is good for the brain.
It has cognitive benefits such as improved performance on attention control tasks, improved working memory, and mental flexibility.
Bringing nature indoors
If you don't have easy access to natural environments or have limited time to spend in green spaces, you can still enjoy the benefits of nature from your indoor spaces.
Here are some strategies you can try.
Add plants to your space or buy a fresh bouquet of flowers. Listen to music based on nature sounds like the ocean, river, waterfall, wind, birds, etc. You can also download an app that plays soothing nature sounds that you can listen to while you work or relax. Decorate your home or workspace with paintings and photos of nature. You can choose beautiful landscapes, gardens, and nature scenes. Watch nature videos on YouTube.
Ad 4
This advertisement has not loaded yet, but article continues below.
Article Contents
May I help you with anything?
Calling or texting 2-1-1 provides a free and confidential service to help you easily access the critical social and community supports you need. If you are having thoughts of suicide, please call the Mental Health Crisis and Suicide Prevention Line at 9-8-8.
The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice. If you require advice, please consult a qualified health care professional. For more information or to access CMHA's services, please call 1-800-493-8271 or visit our website at www.cmha-east.on.ca.
References:
How Natural Therapies Can Help Your Mental Health (verywellmind.com)
Naturally grown (apa.org)
Article Contents
Share this article on social networks
