Boost Your Health with 10 Nature-Inspired Methods

Improved Mental Health Through 10 Natural Methods

In today's increasingly urbanised world, where more than half of the global population resides in cities, the importance of nature for our mental health and well-being cannot be overstated.

Research has shown that spending time in natural environments can have a profound impact on our emotional health and well-being. People who regularly enter natural environments gain emotional balance, reduce stress, and enhance mental relaxation. This benefit extends to those suffering from conditions such as depression, anxiety, or burnout, as well as the general population through daily access to green spaces.

One such activity that has gained popularity is forest bathing, a practice that originated in Japan and involves immersing oneself in the forest atmosphere. This practice has been found to result in reduced pulse rate and urinary adrenaline, indicating a decrease in stress levels.

The benefits of nature extend to older adults as well, improving the quality of life for this demographic. Urban and rural green space may help mitigate stress for children and the elderly, providing a much-needed respite from the pressures of modern life.

Green exercise, such as nature walks, has been found to improve self-esteem, with the greatest improvements among those with mental illness. Research published in PLoS One suggests a cognitive advantage from spending time in a natural environment, further highlighting the benefits of these activities.

Other research published in Landscape and Urban Planning found that exposure to natural green space can improve complex working memory span and decrease anxiety and rumination. This is particularly important for urban dwellers, whose mental health is often negatively affected by their city environment, with greater prevalence of anxiety and mood disorders and an increasing incidence of schizophrenia.

The addition of open spaces in urban environments can increase city dwellers' perceptions of their general health. Engaging in exercise in nature activities can also improve self-esteem and mood levels for individuals with mental health issues. Habitual nature walks can benefit cardiovascular and metabolic parameters, making it a win-win for physical and mental health.

Moreover, being in nature improves creativity and problem-solving. Reducing stress can be achieved through gardening, providing a therapeutic outlet for many. Public access to natural environments can alleviate stress and anxiety and facilitate clarity, reassurance, and emotional perspective for women.

Individuals with depression may also benefit by interacting with nature. Research published in the Journal of Affective Disorders in 2012 suggested that individuals with major depressive disorder who engaged in 50-minute walks in a natural setting showed significant memory span increases compared to study participants who walked in an urban setting.

In conclusion, the benefits of nature for our mental health and well-being are numerous and varied. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving creativity and cognitive function, it is clear that incorporating nature into our daily lives can have a profound impact on our overall health and happiness. As urbanisation continues to increase, it is crucial that we prioritise the creation and preservation of green spaces to ensure that these benefits are accessible to all.