Out in the nature to heal

Health benefits of spending time in nature are real, assert experts

With a lack of alternatives for leisure activities during the pandemic, many people discovered walking. Now that the lifting of COVID restrictions has made more activities possible again, it’s still worth seeking as much peace and quiet in nature as possible.

“Studies have shown that one can feel a positive effect after 20 minutes,” says professor and physician Andreas Michalsen. “The pulse slows down, blood pressure and stress levels drop and the immune system is stimulated. The parts of the brain responsible for relaxation and calm are supplied with blood.”

NATURE MAKES YOU FEEL ALIVE

Psychologist Anja Goeritz tells us that the stressreducing and vitalising effect of nature has been proven by more than 100 studies. “It’s proven that being in nature has a positive effect,” says the professor of business psychology. “Alongside the physical effects, psychological issues such as anxiety and depression are also reduced.”

The best part is that it doesn’t always have to be the perfect forest environment or an hour-long hike. Michalsen explains further, “It’s about getting involved with nature with our senses. For me, that means experiencing nature.”

Experiencing nature could also include lying on the grass and looking at the clouds. The expert clarifies that the sense of touch, for example while hugging trees, is not critical for a positive effect. “Probably 70 to 80 per cent is what we see, the rest is fresh air and smells as well as acoustic stimuli such as birdsong,” adds Michalsen. “That is why it’s worth being alone in nature, instead of talking loudly with a group or on the phone.”

SIMULATING NATURE ALSO WORKS

Anja Goeritz clarifies that you don’t need to live in the countryside to experience. “Current research shows that simulating nature via virtual reality promotes wellbeing.”—