Spending Time In Nature Reduces Stress!

“Adopt the pace of nature. Her secret is patience.”  –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Feeling stressed? The solution you need could be right outside—literally. A study recently published in Mind, a quarterly peer-reviewed journal, found that 95% of participants experienced mood improvements after spending time in nature. These individuals (who previously felt stressed, anxious, or even depressed) immediately reported feeling more relaxed. That’s because nature has a positive and meaningful effect on our psychological wellbeing.

The great outdoors, with its interesting sights, scents, and sounds, provides respite for a busy or overworked mind. We are genetically programmed to feel comforted by trees, water, and plants. In fact, neurological studies show that nature scenes stimulate the same areas of the brain as empathy and love.

When we focus on nature, we let go of stress and worry. We become more mindful and grounded in the present. Some research even suggests that spending time in nature improves our ability to focus on complex tasks. Hiking, camping, or even just meditating in your own backyard can all provide tremendous stress relief.

While immersing yourself in the natural world, you’ll also find secondary benefits of breaking free. It provides a perfect distraction from the social media and electronic devices that monopolize so much of our attention.

You’ll likely feel better physically and energetically, too. That’s because green space provides a welcome break from harmful EMF Radiation.  

It’s not surprising to learn that people who spend more time in the forest show reduced blood cortisol levels compared to those who spend more time in a city setting. This reduced stress can translate into better overall health.

You may not have the luxury of escaping into the wild for an extended time, but that’s okay. Research by Cornell University found that even ten minutes in a quiet park or garden was enough to help individuals “feel happier and lessen the effects of both physical and mental stress” (Frontiers in Psychology, 2019).

Adding more nature to your day may be one of the easiest lifestyle changes for reducing stress and experiencing more joyful calm.

For personalized guidance on releasing stress, anxiety, or unserving energy, schedule a phone consultation with Rose. 

*This blog contains Amazon affiliate links. The owner of this site may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended.

What To Remember:

Humans are hardwired to find comfort in nature.

Spending time outdoors boosts mindfulness and reduces burnout.

Even a few minutes a day may reduce stress and improve your health.

For another way to reduce the effects of EMF, read my review of EMF Rocks Grounding Bags.

 

Sources:

1. Black, James. (October, 2020). 12 Scientific Benefits of Being Outdoors. WildernessDefined.com. 
2. Chang and Ewert. (May, 2018). Levels of Nature and Stress Response. NCBI.gov
3. American Heart Association. (August, 2018). Spend Time in Nature to Reduce Stress and Anxiety. Heart.org.
4. The American Institute of Stress. (February, 2020). How Being Outdoors and Getting Active Impacts Stress Management. Stress.org.