by Lucienne Steel – Naturopath
In the last decade, research on the benefits of time in nature has exploded. We can now scientifically confirm what many people have known innately for time immemorial: there are measurable associations between time in nature and improved mental health, cognitive function, sleep, blood pressure and more.
Studies on Shinrinyoku (Japanese forest bathing) show that spending time in the forest will reduce stress, as measured by heart rate, blood pressure, cortisol levels, and sympathetic nervous system activity (that’s the part of your system that has you in fight/flight). Simultaneously, we see boosts to the parasympathetic nervous system (which allows you to rest & digest) and the immune system. Studies on people who swim/visit the ocean show similar improvements to both mental health and immune activity, and it won’t just help while you’re actually in the forest or at the beach, the perks can last for up to a month afterwards!
Why does it help? Theories abound. Maybe it’s that spending more time in nature often means more physical activity. Maybe it’s aromatherapy, with terpenes released by the trees and salt in the sea air. Maybe it’s beneficial bacteria in the soil and water impacting our own microbiomes. Maybe it’s negatively charged ions. Maybe it’s the sight of all that green and blue space, that it calms the brain. Maybe it’s the sunshine resetting your melatonin and cortisol production and giving you vitamin D. Maybe it’s just that we are part of nature, and we belong there. Whatever it is, you have to chase after it. You must actively seek nature, or this modern life will get in the way.
We’re lucky in the southwest, having such nature on our doorsteps, that even your daily drive to work can become a microdose of nature. Wind down your windows and breathe in the peppy trees. Take the long route home that gives you a glimpse of the ocean. Sit outside on your lunch break.
Then start to prioritise nature in your weekends and down time. Go for a picnic, go camping, watch the birds and the sunset, search for orchids, hunt for mushrooms. Get out into the natural world and remember that you’re a part of it.
We need as much as we can get of nature, but if you need a number to build up to, aim for 30 mins a day, 5 days a week. Pro tip: that’s the same as our exercise goal for the week, so combine the two for a winning combo of ultimate health! Remember, you can start small, start late, start reluctantly, just start. Increasing your time in nature will decrease stress and anxiety.
Feel free to reach out if this is something I can help you with,
Lucie