Become one with nature and improve your mental health
A recent study indicates that walking outdoors can decrease depression.
My oldest son recently took me on a two-mile hiking trail across a local mountain. When we got out of the car he asked me to listen and I smiled; We both took note of the complete silence because we were away from the sounds of the city. The air was fresher and my sinuses cleared up. My son age 39 walked just a bit slower and I picked up my speed a little and we found we were walking in sync with each other and were one with nature. As I strolled behind him my son's clothing seemed to blend in with the hues on the mountain and I was amazed.
Becoming one with the great outdoors is scientifically proven to calm, and relax. The peace and tranquility that we experienced is very beneficial according to a new study. Experts indicate that outdoor time in nature is preferable to the atmosphere, sights, and sounds of the city. There is evidence that walking in nature could actually lead to a decreased risk of depression. The study results which were published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Science revealed something that has long been suspected and now has been verified.
Those who walked for 90 minutes in a natural area, when compared with individuals who walked in areas of high traffic had a decrease in activity in a specific region of the brain associated with a key depression factor. Those who walked among grass and trees were shown to have a decrease in negative repetitive thoughts. I have noticed that every time I walk on a mountain trail my mind is clear and shortly after I return to the city I have racing thoughts again.
Gretchen Daily, the co founder of the study and Bing Professor in Environmental Science was quoted as saying: “Our findings can help inform the growing movement worldwide to make cities more livable, and to make nature more accessible to all who live in them.” Research also states that those who live in the city have a 20% higher risk for schizophrenia than those who live in rural areas. My family has noticed for decades that when we go out of town and drive through rural areas we feel more relaxed.
As we get back into the city it's as if we begin feeling tired and even sick at times. Studies are now showing that the rise in mental illness, especially depression is coinciding with urbanization and the disconnect from nature. Right now more than half of the people in the world live in urban areas and this has been projected to rise to 70 within the next few decades and that is alarming. This is why it is important for city dwellers to find ways to benefit from the great outdoors.
I grew up in the county and did not realize how precious it was to live near mountains, and streams and be able to walk everywhere. It was something my family, friends, and neighbors did without having an understanding of the healthy benefits. We walked to each other's homes, to the store, the local ball diamond and the nearby elementary school for various activities. Right now there is a woman from my old neighborhood who is 102 and was driving her car prior to COVID. She had 2 neighbors who died at ages 95 and 98 and this is no coincidence.
sIn today's post coronavirus world where everyone has been sheltering in place, it is important to find ways to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and walking through nature. This is probably the best way to combat the stress that has been attributed to the pandemic. There has been an increase in depression, other mental issues and suicide since COVID invaded the world. So many people say tired of cabin fever and not being able to get out. Something to keep in mind is that it is not date night, a movie, or your favorite restaurant that will combat your issue. It will be time spent in a rural area atmosphere where you can take a stroll, enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and become one with nature.
About the Creator
Cheryl E Preston
Cheryl enjoys writing about current events, soap spoilers and baby boomer nostalgia. Tips are greatly appreciated.
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