The benefits of time spent in nature
At times filled with fast-growing technology and high engagement, being free to go outside seems like a bit of a miracle. It is no secret that walking in fresh air and in comfortable clothes helps relieve some of these daily stressors and reduce tension.
Going outdoors has a calming effect on our minds, even if it's only for a little bit every day. When you're out, if you speed up or even run or cycle, it's a great exercise for the heart, because of the increased heart rate and calorie expenditure.
A study conducted at the University of Essex found that walking in nature lowered depression in 71% of participants. This technique is used as a form of therapy called "ecotherapy", which is gaining popularity among dozens of people concerned about their mental health. [ref. 1]
This is not the only study to show such results. A study in Canada with over 10,000 participants tested the effect of spending 30 minutes in nature for 30 days [ref. 2] . The results reported by the participants are clear that going outside brings great effects;
- Enhancing their sense of well-being.
- They feel more productive when they work.
- They feel happier.
- Participants reported higher energy levels.
- They sleep better and have fewer sleep disorders.
- Feelings of stress and negativity decrease.
Exeter Medical School researchers' recommendations
As with many health advice, the simplest guidelines seem most effective. This is the consensus of a new study published in Scientific Reports on June 13, which offers the basic guidelines that confirm what is known so far: spending at least two hours a week in nature will work wonders for your health.
The researchers, from Exeter Medical School in the UK, are reviewing previous studies to better understand exactly how staying outside contributes to our health. Scientists found that unity with nature implies a lower risk of hospitalization in asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental distress, obesity and adult mortality. It has also been shown to reduce obesity and myopia in children. [ref. 3]
Two hours a week seems to be the most appropriate recommendation, with positive effects also reported in 200-300 minutes. Perhaps it is important here to make one clarification: the study is based on nearly 20,000 people who live in densely populated urban areas. This seems logical since the population here mostly needs time among forests, lakes and mountains.
The fact that nature brings health benefits is not surprising and it would be great if we could find more time not only to walk outside, but also to clean and protect our nature. It seems that the more detached we become from it, the more we crave the connection. That's human nature, isn't it?
