If the natural world could be packaged as a pill and sold in pharmacies it would be flying off the shelves – such are its proven physical, mental, and emotional benefits. But luckily it can’t be packaged, or sold, which is good news because it means that it’s free. All it costs you is time....
Nature is a source of energy, sustenance and healing for human beings. It is our natural home. Our brains and bodies evolved over thousands of years through connection and interaction with the natural world and as such, there is a deep biological yearning in us to reconnect with the soil and the sky, the seas and the trees. This longing is literally encoded in our DNA.
So, what are the benefits of spending time in nature? How does nature actually affect us?
Vitality
Studies have shown that spending as little as 20 minutes in a vegetation rich natural environment can increase vitality. Vitality is a sense of enthusiasm, energy, and zest for life that allows us to operate at optimal functioning, but it also includes our ability to face challenges in resourceful and productive ways.
Improved immunity
The reduced stress that people feel as a result of spending time in nature may be a factor in increasing immune function but Scientists suggest that is more down to phytoncides, which are the airborne chemicals that plants and trees emit to protect them from rotting and insects. These chemicals seem to have positive health benefits for human beings. People who spent time amongst plants were found to have lower cortisol levels, lower pulse rate, and lower blood pressure.
Nature increases happiness