Living in Mountain Lakes and Boonton Township, many of us take our access to nature and green surroundings for granted. We are fortunate that we have easy access to nature, known as “Vitamin N” by some. There is increasing evidence that spending time in nature is extremely important for our health. “Vitamin N” is being recognized as a required nutrient for good health, just like Vitamin C. Vitamin N is being recognized as important for overall physical and mental health, as well as brain function and cognition. Studies suggest that nature is beneficial to us in multiple ways and we should make time to prioritize our time in nature just like we prioritize exercise.
Recent studies have shown that exposure to nature can contribute to positive mood and mental health. Dr. Bratman of the University of Washington has performed a number of studies highlighting how exposure to nature can be beneficial. For example, in one study, he compared participants who walked for 50 minutes in nature versus in a city environment. In this study, he had one group of participants walk in a “nature environment” and one group of participants walk in an “urban environment” of a busy street. Participants were assessed before and after their walk. Researchers assessed participants’ mood, affect, and cognitive function. Participants in the nature group showed less anxiety, increased positive mood, and improved cognitive performance on a working-memory test. This study clearly demonstrated the positive effects of nature on participants.
During the pandemic, many people got used to spending most of their time indoors and many have continued this behavior. In addition, technology plays a huge role in our everyday lives, with many people focused on technology, including their phones and computers. Mental health issues worsened during the pandemic and lack of access to nature may have contributed to this. The good news is that studies have shown that living in areas rich in greenery can result in diminished mental illnesses and disorders such as depression and anxiety. On the other hand, those living in urban environments like busy cities have increased incidences of depression and anxiety.
For those people not fortunate to be surrounded by lakes, nature trails, and parks, researchers have shown that even simulating this natural environment can be potentially beneficial. For example, in one study, listening to soothing sounds found in nature like waves and chirping crickets was shown to have positive effects compared to those who listened to sounds found in typical city environments like traffic sounds.
In addition to positive effects on mood, living in areas surrounded by nature has been shown to have beneficial effects on brain function and cognition. Immersing oneself in nature can not only be calming and relaxing but can also help cognitive performance. Researchers have shown that those who spend time in nature have improved memory and attention spans. The good news is that even short periods of time can have positive effects. Specifically, researchers have shown that favorable effects can occur after spending as little as one hour in nature. Schools that are situated in environments surrounded by nature and greenery can positively contribute to cognitive development in children. Furthermore, there is evidence that children who grow up in homes situated in areas rich with greenery may have better behavior with improved self-control.
Spending time in nature should be prioritized along with other recommendations for healthy living. Just like there are recommendations for intake of vitamins like Vitamins C and D, there are recommendations for the amount of time one should spend taking in “Vitamin N.” One recommendation is that people should spend a minimum of 120 minutes a week in nature for optimal health. For most of us, that means just taking a quick walk down the street or in our neighborhoods. Living where we do, this should be relatively easy to accomplish and should be made a top priority in our daily lives.
In summary, we are fortunate to be surrounded by so much greenery and natural beauty like our many lakes, fields, and trails. Living in nature, seeing nature, and spending time in nature can all have positive benefits on our moods and cognition. To derive the most benefits, we should aim to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Fortunately, it is easier for us than for those living in urban environments. Therefore, we should take advantage of our environment and take the time to take some deep breaths and enjoy our green surroundings. We will be healthier overall by doing so.
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