Benefits of Nature

“We are part of the natural world and depend on it “- David Attenborough

Scientific studies show that natural environments can have remarkable benefits to health. It has been shown to help with those who are depressed, sick, elderly and children. Light, fresh air, freedom, connectedness, all promote self healing.

Eco therapy is counselling out in nature. It allows more freedom, less containment than a therapy room, and many people find it easier to talk. Walking and talking side by side avoids eye contact which some people find uncomfortable. Therapy outside can feel a less intimidating environment and is a perfect backdrop for counselling. Walking also adds the benefit of physical exercise.

Children these days seem to be indoors an awful lot, due to safety and technology issues. Many have nature deficit and their mental and physical health is impacted. Nature can help children in so many ways. It helps children to explore, be creative, use their imagination, appreciate the natural world, feel more connected to nature , invent their own games, gain a sense of wonder, and in groups can help build social skills and connect to others. It has also been shown to improve cognitive functioning, problem solving skills, and emotional regulation. It can reduce stress, anxiety and depression and really help with ADD/ADHD. It can also help promote positive physical health and help children thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Of course, adults get all these benefits too. A growing body of evidence shows that some of the benefits are :

Reduction of stress, anxiety and depression

Reduction in negative thinking

Induces relaxation

Improves memory

Improves concentration

Improves emotional regulation

Creates positive moods

Helps impulse control

Increases self esteem

Increases self awareness

Enhances creative abilities

Improves resilience

Opens our senses

Puts us back in touch with our natural rhythms

Improves vision problems

Lowers heart rate

Lowers blood pressure

Improves sleep

Reduces fatigue

Helps recovery from illness

Improves immune functioning

Makes us feel connected to something bigger than ourselves

Increases feelings of happiness

Teaches us to appreciate and look after our environment

Being out in sunshine has the added benefit of providing Vit D which many people are short of these days. Walking and activities in nature means physical exercise which is also good for our mind and body health. Nature is a natural purifier, leaving us feeling refreshed and invigorated. Solitude in nature allows us time for peace and to reflect. Sleeping grounded in nature promotes healing and better sleep. Walks in nature have been shown to stimulate production of anti-cancer proteins, and to improve chronic pain. If someone is ill and confined to bed, just having a view of nature from a window can positively impact their wellbeing and recovery.

People who spend a lot of time in nature are shown to have fewer health problems. Nature is a wonderful healer and good for the soul. Studies show that contact with nature is central to our ability to maintain and restore positive psychological mood states.

Modern society and technology has changed our environment, meaning we have become disconnected from the natural world, and in turn from ourselves. This affects our mental and physical health. We need to reconnect to increase our wellbeing. We are intrinsically connected to nature, the air, water, food, climate and changing of the seasons. Nature can nurture us, and in return we should nurture the natural world and look after our environment.