A Historical Perspective: Nature and Mental Health

Human beings grew up in nature; it’s our original home, and research suggests that it’s still a place where we can find many mental health benefits. Historically, cultures worldwide have recognized the healing effects of nature. For instance, in Japan, the practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, has been a popular preventative healthcare practice since the 1980s. However, this topic is not on our agenda today, as it has been widely covered elsewhere.

Instead, we will focus on the broader concept of green space - parks, gardens, and other natural environments accessible in urban settings - and their impact on mental health. The 19th-century American poet Walt Whitman was a strong advocate for the healing power of nature, writing in his “Leaves of Grass” that an immersion in nature could cleanse the soul. While Whitman’s claims were based on personal observation and introspection, modern science has begun to provide hard evidence for the same.

Current Research: The Positive Effects of Green Spaces

In recent years, a growing body of research has started to unveil the actual positive effects of green spaces on mental health. A 2019 study by the University of Pennsylvania found that greening urban areas (cleaning up vacant lots and planting grass and trees) led to a significant decrease in feelings of depression and worthlessness in neighborhood residents.

Another study in Denmark, utilizing satellite data from 1985 to 2013, found that growing up near vegetation was associated with up to a 55% lower risk of mental health disorders in adulthood. These studies, among others, show a consistent link between access to green spaces and improved mental health.

The Science Behind The Green Therapy

So, how exactly do green spaces influence our mental health? There are a few proposed theories. Some suggest that green spaces help by providing a place for physical activity, known to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Others propose that green spaces encourage social interaction, another crucial aspect of maintaining mental health.

Some theories look at the more direct impact of nature on our brains. For instance, studies have shown that viewing scenes of nature can help restore our attention, reducing mental fatigue and aiding in stress recovery.

Health Tips: Incorporating Green Spaces in Your Routine

• Start Small: You don’t need to spend hours in a forest to benefit from nature. Even a short walk in a park can boost your mood.
• Bring Nature Home: If you can’t get to a green space, bring nature to you. Houseplants, a small herb garden, or even nature soundtracks can help.
• Practice Mindfulness: When in nature, truly be there. Listen to the sounds, breathe in the scents, and observe the sights.

In The Green Prescription

While we continue to navigate the complexities of mental health, one aspect is becoming increasingly clear: green spaces are good for the mind. As we continue to urbanize and digitize our lives, it’s crucial to keep this connection to nature alive. Whether it’s a city park, a strip of trees, or a small home garden, let’s embrace these pockets of nature for the sake of our mental health.