logo
BRAINSTREAMS 5 News 5 How Walking in Nature Changes the Brain

Aug 26, 2015

How Walking in Nature Changes the Brain

by

A walk in the park may soothe the mind and, in the process, change the workings of our brains in ways that improve our mental health, according to an interesting new study of the physical effects on the brain of visiting nature.

Most of us today live in cities and spend far less time outside in green, natural spaces than people did several generations ago.

City dwellers also have a higher risk for anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses than people living outside urban centers, studies show.

These developments seem to be linked to some extent, according to a growing body of research. Various studies have found that urban dwellers with little access to green spaces have a higher incidence of psychological problems than people living near parks and that city dwellers who visit natural environments have lower levels of stress hormones immediately afterward than people who have not recently been outside.

But just how a visit to a park or other green space might alter mood has been unclear. Does experiencing nature actually change our brains in some way that affects our emotional health?

Read more>>

Related Posts

Santa’s Helpers Ensure Letters Reach the North Pole

Tracey Barry and Tina Marsh are on a mission to ensure the postal disruption does not stop children from sending their letters to Santa. The heartwarming story, featured in the Sawatsky Sign-Off segment, highlights a group of dedicated volunteers, including Tina,...

Read More
Translate »