The Benefits of Being in Nature

As we enjoy the long days of summer, we’re all naturally spending more time outside, but did you know that this has recognised benefits for our physical and emotional health? The benefits are many and varied; being in nature promotes ‘brain-derived neurotropic function’ (BDNF) which improves learning and memory, improves our mood and can even have anti-aging effects!

Trees produce a compound called ‘phytoncides’ which have a dramatic impact on our moods, and these have been shown to reduce depression, anxiety and even pain, and the impact of this doesn’t just last as long as our walk, a 2 hour walk has been shown to increase white blood cells and immune responses for up to 2 days.

Research in Japan on ‘shinrin-yoku’ (forest bathing) has shown that time among trees increases the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, which help ward off infections and may even reduce the risk of cancer. Earlier this month I was fortunate to experience a forest bathing session with the amazing Hawk and Heath at Broughton Hall, and definitely felt calmer afterwards!

 Studies have repeatedly found that spending time outdoors, especially in lush green environments, can lower blood pressure and heart rate. The calming sights and sounds found in nature activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting a state of relaxation and reducing the body’s stress response. The repeating patterns we see in nature, such as leaves and branches, called Fractals, have been shown to create a reduction in stress of up to 60% while exposure to natural light helps regulate the body's circadian rhythms, which play a crucial role in sleep cycles. People who spend time outdoors during the day, especially in the morning, often experience deeper and more restorative sleep at night.

One of the joys of being outside is listening to the glorious sounds of birdsong or flowing water, and these have been shown to help lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Many people experience immediate relief from anxiety and tension after just a short time outdoors, and sunlight in particular, can boost serotonin production, which helps regulate our moods.

If you’re not able to get out into the countryside, you’ll be pleased to know that even brief encounters with nature such as a stroll in a city park, or even a view of trees through a window can improve emotional resilience. So if you do nothing else this month, try to get outside!

All the best

Candy x