Content Creator: Ananya Anindita Content Editor: Fariya Chohan Nature is a healing environment. Not only does it help in proper physiological cleansing, it also gives our mind a refreshing restart. Most of us have a fast-paced, urban lifestyle. Naturally, we all are a little over-exerted from time to time, due to which our mental health gets affected. This has led to the development of a new field in psychology called ‘ecopsychology’. It is the study of how the ecosystem and our mental health are intertwined. Every study shows that time spent in nature is like an antidote for stress. It can lower blood pressure, stress hormone levels, and anxiety. It can also reduce nervousness, enhance immunity, increase self-esteem, uplift our spirit, and improve our mood. Along with this, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) patients have shown longer attention spans after spending a few days in nature. Many people find themselves surrounded by trees, bushes, small garden insects and feel a little less lonely. Shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing’, is a term used by Japanese researchers for a walk-in nature. This concept has shown better nervous system operations in people who follow it. The practice of mindfulness (the conscious state of mind by focusing on one’s awareness of the present moment while calmly accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations; used as therapeutic technique) is increased and more efficient when amongst nature. Another study at the University of Kansas proved that spending more time outdoors, being active and spending less time with electronic devices indoors can increase problem-solving skills and improve creative ability. The stress of a stressful environment is undone in the environment. There is a boost in positive or pleasant feelings. ‘Nature deprivation’ is the lack of time in nature. The more the amount of time spent in front of screens, the deadlier it becomes. Studies have shown a directly proportional relation between nature deprivation and depression. Nature is a soothing environment, it is supposed to make us happy and healthy. Nature heals, soothes and restores. REFERENCES: https://e360.yale.edu/features/ecopsychology-how-immersion-in-nature-benefits-your-health https://positivepsychology.com/positive-effects-of-nature/ https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/thriving-with-nature/guide https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/how-does-nature-impact-our-wellbeing https://advances.sciencemag.org/content/5/7/eaax0903
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