In our modern, fast-paced world, it’s easy to disconnect from nature. The ever changing landscape of the health and wellness industry with new products and supplements make it easy to forget that one of the simplest and most profound ways to improve psychal, mental and emotional health is to go outside. As much as Crunchy believes that our organic ingredients can heal from the inside out, we also believe in the importance of healing from the outside in. So, kick your shoes off, feel the ground under your feet and the sun on your skin. And you don’t just have to take our word for it: we have compiled some research that shows the scientific benefits of nature on the mind and body. Here are a few of the ways nature can act as medicine…
- Stress Reliever
One of the most significant benefits of spending time in nature is its ability to reduce stress. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and reduce activity in the part of the brain associated with stress. There is a natural therapy often referred to as “forest bathing” that has been shown to have calming effects that promote relaxation and overall well-being.
- Immunity Super Hero
Believe it or not, nature can actually boost your immune system. Phytoncides, the natural compounds emitted by trees and plants, have antimicrobial properties that can strengthen our immune response. Breathing in these compounds while outdoors can increase the activity of white blood cells, enhancing our ability to fight off infections and diseases.
- Anti-Depressant
Nature has a positive impact on mental health, offering relief from depression and anxiety. Research from the University of Michigan suggests that spending time outdoors in green spaces can significantly improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Exposure to nature also encourages physical activity, which further contributes to mental health benefits through the release of endorphins and improvement in cognitive function.
- Exercise Instigator
Being in nature encourages physical activity, whether it’s hiking, cycling, or taking a walk. Regular physical activity improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, and improves weight management. Natural settings also provide opportunities for vitamin D exposure which is essential for bone health and immune function.
- Concentration Aid
Nature has been shown to enhance focus and cognitive function. Taking breaks in natural environments can improve attention span and productivity. Plus, research from the University of Kansas, shows that exposure to nature sparks creativity and problem-solving abilities.
Making time
Now, you may already know the great benefits that time in nature has to offer. In our modern world, the barrier to these benefits is often time. Therefore, here are a few ways you can try to incorporate outdoor experiences into your daily life:
Aim to spend at least 30 minutes outdoors each day, whether it’s a morning walk, eating your lunch outside during your break, or stopping at the beach or a park on your way home from work.
Seek out local parks, nature reserves, or botanical gardens to immerse yourself in natural surroundings.
Engage in mindful activities like meditation or yoga outdoors to deepen your connection with nature.
Make outdoor activities a family affair by organizing picnics, camping trips, or nature walks together.
By prioritizing time in nature, we can reap the health benefits that the outdoors offer. Let’s embrace the healing power of nature and go outside, stay hydrated, and get Crunchy!
References
Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The cognitive benefits of interacting with nature. *Psychological Science*, 19(12), 1207–1212. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2008.02225.x
Bratman, G. N., Hamilton, J. P., & Daily, G. C. (2012). The impacts of nature experience on human cognitive function and mental health. *Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences*, 1249(1), 118–136. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2011.06400.x
Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). A prescription for better health: go alfresco. Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/a-prescription-for-better-health-go-alfresco-202107292534
Kuo, M. (2015). How might contact with nature promote human health? Promising mechanisms and a possible central pathway. *Frontiers in Psychology*, 6, 1093. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01093
Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. *Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine*, 15(1), 9–17. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-008-0068-3
