How Staying Outdoors Make You Happier & Healthier

Rebecca Lewis March 23, 2017

There’s something magical about being outdoors. Living in the countryside – where you are surrounded by green fields and trees, and lovely natural sceneries – can do so much wonder to your health and well-being. And lots of studies back this up!

Here are some scientifically proven benefits of living close to nature:

Lower risk of obesity and depression

Not only does it lift your mood, going outdoors may reduce your risk of depression and obesity. That’s the latest findings from a research which reviewed more than 200 previous studies on the benefits of nature. Surprisingly, the benefits can even be seen even in poor neighbourhoods where risks of both obesity and poor mental health are known to be much higher, according to the review carried out by Friends of the Earth Europe (FoE).

The researchers believe that the increased opportunity to be active and breathe in less air pollution may explain the reduced death rates and obesity prevention. At the same time, green spaces help beat depression by allowing for people to meet others and get away from the hustle and bustle of a city.

Lower risk of mortality

Research published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal found that people who live in “greener” areas, with more vegetation around, have lower risk of mortality. This amazing benefit is more likely due to the mental health, social engagement, and physical activity factors that are higher among these people. In particular, the study found that people who had the most vegetation within 800 feet of their homes — had a 12 per cent lower rate of mortality from any non-accidental cause than people living in the least green places.

Decreased aggressive behaviour

Adolescents who live in neighbourhoods with more green areas are less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviour, according to another study by the University of California, US. It found that increasing greenery levels like parks, golf courses or fields, might result to a 12 per cent decrease in clinical cases of aggressive behaviour.

Improved overall quality of life

Green environments are linked to generally lower rates of aggression, violence and crime, even after controlling for income and other differences – according to a study published by the National Recreation and Park Association in the US. The research also found lower rates of loneliness and fewer individuals reporting inadequate social support.

All these don’t suggest that you move out of the city immediately and opt for a greener neighbourhood. Of course, if you are able to, then it’s a good decision. But if you can’t, don’t feel bad. Instead, make it a goal to travel some more and spend time with nature, even at the closest park in your area, because you don’t always need not go to far-flung places to reap the benefits of being with nature.

Featured Practitioner: http://www.naturaltherapyforall.com/new/detail.php?id=22734

Other Practitioners: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Northwood