We spend over 90 percent of our time out in nature (Photo: ShutterStock)
In recent years, we have become increasingly disconnected from nature. Most people – over half the world's population – live in urban environments, where contact with nature is usually limited. Studies show that we spend over 90 percent of our time outdoors: mostly inside buildings, and a small portion of the time inside cars. Screen time per day averaged almost two hours in children under 8 years of age, and almost eight hours on average in children aged 8-18.
The average adult is in front of screens for almost 11 hours a day, and this figure is on the rise. In contrast, outdoor recreation, going to parks, and outdoor children's play have declined significantly in recent years.
At the same time, many studies have begun to be published regarding the health benefits of going out into nature.
In a study published in 2017, the authors reviewed the various studies carried out on the health benefits of nature. A summary of the studies revealed that exposure to nature led to a number of health benefits, including:
- Reduction of stress
- Improve sleep
- Improving Brain Health
- Reduction in depression
- Reduce anxiety
- Reduction in ADHD symptoms
- Increase in positive social behavior and social bonding
- Reduction in blood pressure
- Improved recovery from surgery
- Better birth outcomes
- Reduction in obesity
- Reduction in diabetes
- Improved vision
- Improved immune function
- Reduction in mortality
Anemones Nir Moshe Forest (Photo: Ziv Reinstein, Ziv Reinstein)
How exactly does nature improve our health?
1. Improving the psychological state. Many studies have shown that being in nature reduces stress. And reducing stress is beneficial both on its own and by improving other health conditions such as lowering blood pressure.
2. Improving immune function.Nature can improve immune function by at least two mechanisms. First, exposure to different microbes and substances in nature allows the immune system to mature normally, probably through the effect on the bacteria living normally in our bodies (the microbiome). In contrast, in people who grow up in sterile environments without exposure to nature, the microbiome and immune system do not develop properly and have an increased incidence of diseases such as allergy and asthma. Second, even brief exposure to substances in nature (e.g., natural substances secreted by trees) was associated with improved function of certain immune cells.
Physical activity has many health benefits such as reducing obesity, improving heart health, reducing the risk of diabetes, improving mental health, and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Living in close proximity to gardens, parks, and natural areas is often associated with higher levels of physical activity in children and adults, which may explain many of the health benefits of living near nature. Why does nature encourage more physical activity? People may have an aesthetic preference for exercising in nature. In addition, children who play in nature develop better motor abilities such as posture and coordination that enable physical activity later in life.
3. Social connection.There is a strong link between strong social ties and good health. Studies have shown that living in greener neighborhoods and using parks were associated with stronger social connection and stronger and broader social networks.
4. Improved air quality.Air quality in rural areas or wilderness areas is generally better than in urban areas. In urban areas, trees can reduce air pollutant levels, though most studies show this improvement is only mild. By improving air quality, contact with nature can protect against lung disease and heart disease.
The advantages of contact with nature are its low cost, high availability, and safety. There are few, if any, drugs that can provide these benefits.
So what can you do?
1. Do your physical activity outdoors. Research shows that outdoor exercise has both physical and mental benefits compared to indoor exercise.
2. Adopt a pet. The pet allows you to connect with nature, and if you have a dog you have no choice but to go outside with him. Contact with animals reduces anxiety, depression, and risk of heart disease.
3. Grow plants on the balcony or in the apartment. Studies show that plants in the home improve mood, reduce anxiety, and improve air quality.
Dr. Dalit Dryman Medina is an expert in family medicine and integrative and functional medicine
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