Increased exposure to Nature reduces Stress, brain activity in regions involved with Sadness and Negative Emotions

(Shuda et al., 2020)

Cortisol (a stress hormone) levels were lower in people living in neighborhoods with more green spaces compared to the people living in neighborhoods with fewer green spaces.

Stress decreased as the percentage of green spaces increased.

Exposure to nature 30 mins per week reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension.

90 mins nature walk reduced brain activity in regions involved with sadness and negative emotions.

Even looking at a nature picture and listening to nature sound significantly reduced stress compared to looking at non-natural pictures and listening to non-nature sounds.

Going for a walk in the morning or evening (or both) in nature is a great way to clear your mind, reduce stress, and get steps in/maintain a moderate daily activity level.

Reference:
Shuda Q, Bougoulias ME, Kass R. Effect of nature exposure on perceived and physiologic stress: A systematic review. Complement Ther Med. 2020 Sep