Reconnecting with nature

Humans have a deep and innate connection to the natural world, and when that connection is disrupted or broken, it can lead to a range of negative health and well-being outcomes.

Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. When humans are disconnected from nature, they may experience higher levels of stress and anxiety, leading to a range of negative health outcomes, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Walking in nature is well known to be a wonderful form of physical activity, it gets the blood flowing and counteracts the damage caused by a life spent sitting in front of a screen. Not everyone can or enjoys walking but even sitting in nature has proven to be beneficial in relieving stress and anxiety. Sometimes you get the most out of your time in nature when you simply stop and observe what’s around you.

Humans evolved in close relationship with the natural world, and our bodies and minds are finely tuned to respond to the natural rhythms and cycles of the environment. When we’re disconnected from nature, we may experience disruptions to our sleep cycles, hormonal imbalances, and other health problems.

Humans have a deep-seated need for meaning and purpose, and a connection to the natural world can provide a sense of purpose and connection to something larger than ourselves.

Here are ten specific examples of how time in nature improves our health and well-being:

1. Reduced stress: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels, leading to feelings of relaxation and calm.
2. Improved mood: Exposure to natural environments has been linked to improved mood, decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression, and increased feelings of happiness.
3. Boosted immune system: Exposure to natural environments can help boost the immune system, making it easier for the body to fight off infections and diseases.
4. Improved cardiovascular health: Regular time in nature has been shown to reduce blood pressure, lower the risk of heart disease, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
5. Enhanced creativity: Being in nature can stimulate creativity and problem-solving skills, leading to greater innovation and productivity.
6. Better sleep: Exposure to natural light and fresh air can improve sleep quality and help regulate sleep patterns, leading to more restful and rejuvenating sleep.
7. Increased physical activity: Spending time in nature often involves physical activity, such as hiking, biking, or gardening, which can lead to improved fitness and overall health.
8. Improved mental clarity: Time spent in nature has been shown to improve focus and concentration, leading to better cognitive performance and mental clarity.
9. Reduced inflammation: Exposure to natural environments has been linked to reduced levels of inflammation in the body, which can help prevent a range of chronic diseases.
10. Increased feelings of awe: Spending time in nature can inspire feelings of awe and wonder, which have been linked to a range of positive health outcomes, including increased generosity, improved well-being, and reduced symptoms of depression.

References:

Petersen, Evi, et al. “The Role of Social Relational Emotions for Human-Nature Connectedness.” Frontiers, Frontiers, 22 Nov. 2019, https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02759/full.

Zelenski, John & Nisbet, Elizabeth. (2014). Happiness and Feeling Connected: The Distinct Role of Nature Relatedness. Environment and Behavior. 46. 3-23. 10.1177/0013916512451901. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268034689_Happiness_and_Feeling_Connected_The_Distinct_Role_of_Nature_Relatedness

Weir, Kirsten. “Nurtured by Nature.” Monitor on Psychology, American Psychological Association, 1 Apr. 2020, https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature.

Capaldi, Colin A, et al. “Flourishing in Nature: A Review of the Benefits of Connecting with Nature and Its Application as a Wellbeing Intervention.” Flourishing in Nature: A Review of the Benefits of Connecting with Nature and Its Application as a Wellbeing Intervention, International Journal of Wellbeing, 17 Dec. 2015, https://www.internationaljournalofwellbeing.org/index.php/ijow/article/view/449/509.

Zelenski, John & Nisbet, Elizabeth. (2014). Happiness and Feeling Connected: The Distinct Role of Nature Relatedness. Environment and Behavior. 46. 3-23. 10.1177/0013916512451901. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/268034689_Happiness_and_Feeling_Connected_The_Distinct_Role_of_Nature_Relatedness