11/06/2025
On this National Stress Awareness Day consider spending time in nature to reap its many benefits!
🌿 Physical Health Benefits
Improved immune function – Exposure to natural environments, especially forests, can boost white blood cell activity (e.g., “forest bathing” or shinrin-yoku).
Reduced blood pressure – Nature exposure helps lower stress hormones and cardiovascular strain.
Better heart health – Regular outdoor activity encourages movement and reduces the risk of heart disease.
Increased physical activity – Being outdoors often leads to walking, hiking, or cycling, which improve overall fitness.
Better sleep – Natural light helps regulate circadian rhythms, leading to more restful sleep.
Reduced inflammation – Time in green spaces has been linked to lower markers of chronic inflammation.
Enhanced respiratory health – Cleaner air (away from urban pollution) can support lung function.
🧠Mental Health Benefits
Reduced stress and anxiety – Nature lowers cortisol levels and promotes calmness.
Improved mood – Sunlight and greenery can increase serotonin and dopamine, improving happiness and decreasing depression.
Better focus and attention – Natural environments restore attention span and reduce mental fatigue (“Attention Restoration Theory”).
Enhanced creativity – Time in natural settings can boost creative thinking and problem-solving.
Lower risk of depression – Studies show people living near green spaces have fewer depressive symptoms
