In today’s world, many of us spend most of our time indoors, surrounded by metal and plastic, under bright fluorescent lights, and constantly looking at screens. We breathe in air that’s not always fresh and rely heavily on technology. However, nature has always been a source of healing and well-being, something our ancestors understood long ago.
Recent studies show that being in contact with nature can greatly improve our mood, thinking, and overall health. Scientists have discovered that spending time in nature can make us feel happier. There’s something special about the beauty of nature that helps us feel calm and centered. When we step into a natural setting, our bodies switch from a state of stress to a state of relaxation. This change helps us breathe more deeply, quiets our busy minds, and allows us to enjoy the present moment.
If you’re feeling down or lacking inspiration, try leaving the city behind and spending some time in nature. The Japanese have a practice called “Shinrin-yoku,” or “forest bathing,” which involves soaking in the atmosphere of the forest to refresh the soul. Being in nature not only boosts our mental health but also has physical healing effects.
For instance, a famous study from 1984 found that hospital patients recovered faster from surgery if they had a view of nature from their rooms, compared to those who only saw a brick wall. Another study in 2003 showed that having more green spaces around where we live can improve the health of all our body systems.
Living in the 21st century can be tough, with crowded streets, tall buildings, traffic, and pollution. That’s why it’s important to make time to be outdoors and appreciate the natural world around us. Nature offers us a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and helps us feel more connected and at peace.
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Take a walk in a nearby park or natural area. As you walk, pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you. After your walk, write a short reflection on how being in nature affected your mood and thoughts. Share your reflections with the class and discuss the different ways nature impacts our well-being.
Learn about the Japanese practice of “Shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing.” Plan a class trip to a local forest or wooded area. Spend time quietly observing and absorbing the natural environment. Afterward, discuss how this experience made you feel and any changes you noticed in your mood or stress levels.
Create a piece of art inspired by nature. Use materials you find outdoors, such as leaves, twigs, or stones, to make a collage or sculpture. Alternatively, draw or paint a scene from nature that makes you feel calm and happy. Present your artwork to the class and explain how nature influenced your creation.
Research a study that highlights the health benefits of being in nature. Prepare a short presentation to share your findings with the class. Include information on how nature can improve mental and physical health, and suggest ways to incorporate more nature into daily life.
Work in groups to design a green space for your school or community. Consider elements that promote relaxation and well-being, such as gardens, walking paths, or seating areas. Present your design to the class, explaining how it would benefit people’s health and mood.
Many of us spend the majority of our lives indoors, surrounded by metal and plastic, under fluorescent lights, staring at bright screens while breathing in polluted air. We’ve become reliant on technology and man-made innovations, but the truth is that nature has always had it right. Researchers are discovering what our ancestors knew for thousands of years: nature has incredible healing powers.
New studies suggest that contact with nature is extremely beneficial, leading to improvements in mood, cognition, and overall health. Scientists have found a connection between being surrounded by nature and feeling happy. There is a remarkable beauty in nature that has a unique way of centering us. When we step into a natural landscape, our bodies shift from the sympathetic nervous system, which handles stress, to the parasympathetic nervous system, which manages relaxation. This activates the body’s relaxation response, slowing down and deepening our breathing, reducing internal chatter, and allowing us to appreciate the present moment.
If you’re feeling down or uninspired, consider escaping the urban environment and immersing yourself in nature. The Japanese have a term for this type of experience called “Shinrin-yoku,” which translates to “forest bathing.” This practice involves taking in the atmosphere of the forest to recharge the soul. Immersing yourself in a natural environment not only has significant mental benefits but has also been shown to heal the physical body.
For example, a classic study from 1984 found that hospital patients recovered from surgery more quickly if their room had a view of nature, compared to those who looked out at a brick wall. Another study published in 2003 found that the health of every bodily system improved with increased green space in one’s living environment.
The 21st century can be challenging, with crowded streets, skyscrapers, traffic, and pollution. It’s important to prioritize time outdoors, deep in nature, and truly appreciate our natural surroundings. For more interesting videos like this one, please subscribe.
Nature – The natural world, including plants, animals, and landscapes, not altered by humans. – Spending time in nature can help improve our mood and reduce stress.
Health – The state of being free from illness or injury, often influenced by environmental factors. – Clean air and water are essential for maintaining good health.
Mood – A temporary state of mind or feeling that can be influenced by environmental factors. – The sunny weather lifted everyone’s mood during the outdoor class.
Healing – The process of becoming well again, often supported by a healthy environment. – The peaceful garden was designed to promote healing and relaxation.
Stress – A state of mental or emotional strain resulting from demanding circumstances. – High levels of noise pollution can increase stress in urban environments.
Relaxation – The state of being free from tension and anxiety, often achieved through environmental changes. – Listening to the sound of waves can bring a sense of relaxation.
Beauty – The quality of being pleasing to the senses or mind, often found in natural environments. – The beauty of the forest in autumn is breathtaking and inspiring.
Environment – The surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. – Protecting the environment is crucial for the survival of many species.
Psychology – The scientific study of the human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behavior in a given context. – Environmental psychology explores how natural settings influence our mental health.
Well-being – The state of being comfortable, healthy, or happy, often influenced by environmental factors. – Access to green spaces can significantly enhance our well-being.
