The effects of spending time in nature on physical and mental health
Scientific research reveals that being intertwined with nature reduces stress levels and positively supports mental health.
While research shows that connecting with natural environments has many benefits ranging from reducing anxiety and depression to lowering blood pressure, experts state that personal preferences and habits can also shape these responses.
The Healing Power of Nature
The healing power of nature has long been discussed in healthcare services and creates positive effects in hospital processes.
For example, a past study found that patients who underwent surgery could be discharged earlier when they could see trees from the window.
The Effect of Nature in Different Fields
The benefits of nature are not limited to healthcare services alone, but also manifest themselves in different social areas.
For example, it was observed that inmates watching nature videos in a prison were involved in fewer violent incidents.
The Biophilia Hypothesis and Theories
According to the biophilia hypothesis, because our ancestors evolved in the wild, humans have an innate urge to be close to nature.
Scientists put forward two main theories to explain the effects of spending time in nature: the stress reduction hypothesis and attention restoration theory.
Cognitive Development and Memory
Research has revealed that people who walk in nature experience improvements in working memory and dwell less on negative thoughts.
Differences in Personal Experience
Not everyone experiences nature in the same way, and some studies have shown that differences can be seen in individuals' physiological responses.
Additionally, the fact that people feel safer in environments they are familiar with can affect the stress-releasing processes.