Our surroundings certainly affect the way we think and feel. What we see, hear and experience not only affect our moods, but also some of the internal physical processes within our bodies. An unpleasant environment can trigger anxious feelings, while physically elevating our heart rate and blood pressure and suppressing our immunity. A pleasant, clean and uncluttered environment does the opposite; its soothes us and calms us down.
It is of no doubt that the natural environment around us is pleasant and helps rejuvenate our bodies and minds. After all, the first things that come to mind when one thinks of tranquility is a wide open meadow, a deserted beach, or a river as it lazily flows along. Research shows that spending time one with nature, breaking away from all the chaos, is a highly effective way of combating stress.
Our addiction to devices is known to be one of the major stress factors. Social Media & Depression Survey conducted in 2016 by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine concluded that 2.7 times higher rates of depression were found in frequent social media users over less frequency users. Disconnecting our devices to unwind with nature surely helps one relax. Imagine a few hours of not having to worry about those Emails and calls, and breathing some fresh air. Talking of air, spending time outdoors helps reduce our blood pressure. This is because, there is an abundance of Oxygen in fresh air, unlike indoors where the body has to work hard to inhale the Oxygen it requires. Natural light helps ensure that we have a good night’s sleep, as it regulates the hormone responsible for sleep. Physical activity and nature go hand in hand, because a lot of sports and exercises are often performed outdoors. Being physically active increases the production of the chemical called “endorphin” that puts us in a good mood, also giving our minds the ability to focus. Research suggests that even a single indoor plant in a room can reduce stress and anxiety of people in that room; that is the kind of power nature has over how we feel. Exposure to sunshine increases levels of vitamin D, which improves muscle function, boosts the immune system, and improves your mood. Going outside simply makes one happier and healthier. The next time you feel down, go hug a tree, literally.
You don’t have to trek through the darkest forests or climb the Himalayas or live by the sea to reap these benefits of nature. Incorporating some time with nature in to our daily busy schedules should do the job. Take a 30 minute stroll everyday down your block, interact with the neighbours and animals you may find on the way. Breakaway from your screens and spend some time gardening. Opt for bicycle over your car for grocery runs and other short visits. On vacation? Look for the resort that offers the most outdoor activities, include a waterfall hike in your itinerary, choose the mountain view rooms over the ones facing the city. Host a picnic every now and then. Buy your kids more gear to play with outdoors, rather than spoiling them with more devices. Go to the park as a family, and do it often.
It is important that we make an effort to bring the next generation closer to nature. With all the technological advancements, they are only drifting further away from nature by the day. We also need to be mindful about preserving the gifts of nature for future generations. We need to take immediate steps to minimize or completely eradicate pollutants such as plastic and polythene. We must also strive to reduce waste by re-using as much as we could. If nature is so crucial for our well-being both physically and mentally, shouldn’t we be spending a little more time saving it?
