18th century poet and writer, Samuel Johnson, wisely stated, “Deviation from nature is deviation from happiness”. In today’s technological world few would disagree that we spend far less time in nature today than in previous decades and our connection with the natural world is, for some, almost non-existent. Why does this matter and how can autumn walks help to improve our wellbeing and happiness?
According to a recent study, published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, there is a direct link between nature and happiness. The study showed that people who lived closer to green spaces had better mental health and experienced less stress, anxiety and depression. Researchers found that the closer a person lived to an area that had lots of foliage – trees, grass or flowers – the more positive they felt about their lives.
The boost we can get from an autumn walk can help fend off the winter blues at a time when many admit to feeling down as daylight hours shorten. Being around nature for just 20 minutes is enough to boost brain chemistry to improve mood and energy levels. Nature heightens our aliveness as we are particularly responsive to the beauty we find in the natural world. Autumn is a great time of year to capture and appreciate this. The rich light and flamboyant blaze of warm, earthy colours can inspire us and lift our spirits.
Fresh air, exercise and a sense of getting away from it all play a positive role in improving our health. Nature, however, stimulates our senses and it is this, along with the intense colours that we experience at this time of year, that provide a most powerful tonic to our mood. Whatever you decide to do this autumn, consider spending more quality time in the great outdoors, reconnect with nature and boost your mental and physical wellbeing.
For information on how hypnotherapy can help with stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression please call 07514 931 096 or email me using the contact form.