More than May Flowers

There’s a reason that we use phrases like “the great outdoors” and “communing with nature.” Though it might not sound very medical or scientific, many studies suggest even looking at nature can reduce stress, fear, anger, sadness, blood pressure, pulse rate and muscle tension while also boosting serotonin.

The physiological and psychological benefits are so widely recognized in Japan that they practice “forest bathing,” to improve their well-being and escape overexposure to technology.

However, there’s no need to be Robert Frost and take a walk in the woods. Any exposure to nature will do—such as exploring parks, arboretums or botanical gardens. A study published in Scientific Reports found that spending 120 minutes per week in nature increased well-being—no matter how the time was broken down. Spending time in greener areas was associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, asthma hospitalization, stress and mortality. The U.S. Forest Service says even cleaning and greening spaces in your neighborhood reduces crime by 13% and residents’ depression by 41%.

If you like to stick closer to home, gardening also has similar benefits. It is a great way to burn calories, and the sunlight from working in the garden lowers blood pressure and increases vitamin D. Cultivating a garden requires agility and strength, which means it can be an entertaining alternative to physical therapy for stroke victims. Furthermore, a green thumb was linked to decreased dementia risk and loneliness, especially when people participated in community gardens or community service.

If all else fails, try looking at pictures of nature when you’re stuck inside. Several studies have found that images of forests, countryside landscapes, and other green spaces work wonders. Studies have found hanging paintings of the countryside in patients’ rooms reduced pain and anxiety. On the other hand, abstract images increased stress so much that psychiatric patients vandalized the abstract work at one facility but left scenic paintings untouched.

No matter your age, reconsider how you and your family could benefit from more ecotherapy. Frontiers in Psychology reports children and adults who spend more time in nature volunteer more, have higher self-esteem and are more resilient to stress. And who wouldn’t want that?

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