A timeless truth that needs no elaboration, considering the fact that we are embedded in nature. And yet a fact that needs to be spelt out today backed by facts and figures because of our alienation and disconnect from nature
So what does being in nature do exactly?
Being in a natural environment reduces blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and the production of stress hormones. Thus the benefits of even limited contact with nature extends to mental health as well mainly through the reduction of stress and anxiety. In one study in Mind (Mental Health Charity in UK), 95% of those interviewed said their mood improved after spending time outside, changing from depressed, stressed and anxious to calm and balanced. Thus nature restores…
Since we find natural elements like plants, trees, soil and water appealing , we can engrossed in them and can get distracted from our pain and discomfort. A 1984 study by Dave Ulrich showed that hospital patients who could see a natural scene through their hospital window ( as opposed to a brick wall) were discharged more quick and needed less painkillers. Thus nature soothes and heals.
Research had shown that people who spend time in ‘treed public spaces’ are more likely to talk and interact with others – thus enhancing community. Another series of field studies conducted by Kuo and Coley at the Human-Environment Research Lab, time spent in nature connects us to each other and the larger world. Thus nature reinforces our sense of well-being and connectedness.
Richad Louv in this book, Last Child in the Woods, talks of why it is important for children to spend time in natural surroundings. Children who spend time in nature are likely to have better thinking processes, because their ‘field focus gets nurtured in the complexity of natural surroundings; children without such exposure may only have a limited ‘target focus’ developed through exercises at school and video games etc. He also talks of children developing “Nature deficit disorder” when deprived of contact with nature. Thus nature helps in child-rearing and preserving the richness of human cultures.
There are many ways to be in touch in Nature – trekking, walking, bird watching etc., but becoming a gardener is perhaps the best for daily nourishment of body and soul.
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