Nature benefits physical health, psychological well being, cognitive ability and social cohesion.
HEALTH BENEFITS IN SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS
During the pandemic, more adults living in the Northeast reported increasing time spent in nature or outdoors. People who spent just two hours a week outdoors in forests, parks or other green spaces reported higher health and well being levels than those who spent no time in nature or less than two hours a week. Spending time in nature doesn’t require a trip to a state park. Gardening has proven to be very beneficial both physically and psychologically.
How does time spent in nature impact our bodies and minds? It lowers blood pressure, stress hormone levels, anxiety and pulse rate and improves mood.
A recent study found psychiatric patients who spent time gardening reported reduced feeling of isolation, improved moods, sense of calm and better social behavior. Another study found people with dementia had reduced levels of depression and their quality of life improved.
Want to do something for your health that won’t cost a thing?
GET OUTSIDE!