Recent research has shown that even when people believe there are more species (or people) around them, including when it is not true, get a well-being boost then those who think they are alone or in a less bio-diverse environment. The more there is a belief in or appreciation for life around them, the more nature has benefit. The trend of greater urban population growth than outside cities, along with increasingly indoor, on screen lifestyles and unequal access to nature, is contributing to the rise in mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. The latter issues are more common in urban places. Medical research validates this, as cortisol levels significantly increase under urban conditions just described.
A study in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that people in more natural surrounds experience more calm and less health issues. In addition, people who have habits of going outdoors for walks, or recreation, also experience this benefit, as do those who enjoy manicured environments like parks rather than from wild areas. However, because the feeling of safety and calm is a key ingredient to the experience of this benefit, those that visit parks have a greater benefit from nature because it is perceived as safer and less dangerous than a wild area.
Therefore the benefits of nature, both being nurtured by it and nurturing it, highlights the need not only to protect wild places but also to bring more nature into cities and communities in the form of parks, community gardens and additional greenery in general. Making nature a part of our lives is as significant as getting enough and proper sleep and exercise. Thank you for listening.
Steven E. Handwerker Ph.D. D.div, RM
Board Certified Licensed Psychologist
50 years experience
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