The cumulative effect of spending time in nature is good for your health.
You don’t need to spend two hours at once. A total of two hours can be made up of shorter visits spread over the week. Mathew White PhD, the lead author of this study and senior lecturer at The European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, says that benefits can continue for up to five hours.
This research builds upon previous research by Dr. White published in Psychological Science. It found that individuals experience lower levels of mental distress and better well-being in urban areas with more green spaces.
It is well-established that being in a natural setting has many wellness benefits.
The University of Exeter research team examined data from the United Kingdom. “We have been working with Natural England for some time and suggested that they include the well-being and health questions. White explained that they collect the data in in-person interviews with people. The study did not include data on people who gardened in their gardens or went out shopping.
The study analyzed data from almost 20,000 people in England. It found no differences in the results according to gender, socioeconomic status or ethnicity. Even people with disabilities or long-term illnesses, the positive effects were seen.
Green Space Access can Help Reduce Cognitive Decline
Another study published in Social Science & Medicine January 2018 found that “greater neighborhood provision for public parks from childhood to adulthood may help slow down the rate cognitive decline in later years, recognizing that environmental associations are always sensitive and sensitive to individual characteristics.”
What makes a difference for wellness benefits when you choose an activity in a natural setting?
On the key visits that the University of Exeter team examined, it didn’t seem important what people did in nature. “But, we don’t know what people did on all visits so we are a bit nervous about exaggerating this. White says that walking and relaxation are the most popular activities.
