This is one of those “Sleep improves your mood” type of studies, where you can easily guess the outcome, but the fact that it’s scientifically-established is wonderful — both for mental health professionals who offer counsel and people like you and me.
A new study from The University of York found that folks who spent between 20 and 90 minutes per day in nature for 8-12 weeks experienced mental health benefits, including improved mood and less anxiety.
So what qualifies as spending time in nature?
Just getting outside.
The study noted that gardening and exercise seemed particularly beneficial, and doing nature-based activities with people was even better.
One point I’d like to add: Scientists have found that flow-based activities also contribute to well-being and decreased levels of anxiety.
Flow-based activities tend to be totally absorbing and something you really enjoy. It could be playing the piano, gardening, carpentry, and the list goes on.
Of course, you can do flow-based activities in nature or outside nature, but it might be that gardening and exercise were more helpful in this study than simply walking by yourself because of the flow-based nature. That’s speculation.
You can read here for more on the science behind flow.
During the lockdown, we spent a lot more time outdoors than normal, and the best moments were when my wife and I were in a playing groove with our kids (by “playing groove” I mean, not having to intervene in arguments or pick which game to play. You all agree on something, you totally absorb yourself in that, you’re in nature, and you wonder why you’d ever need an antidepressant. And then you come inside, and remember).
Unfortunately, our modern life doesn’t really reward going outdoors and it can be really difficult for many to actually do it.
But… it’s worth a shot, and does, indeed, help me. Not enough to toss my meds. But enough to be a really good supplement to them.
