You don’t have to walk in the woods or take a walk in the park to distress or relax. Simply looking out of the window or even looking at natural landscape photographs can reduce your stress to a great extent.
Research studies for understanding the benefits of nature therapy on mental health have proved time and again how plants and natural elements can work wonders for everyone. This includes workers, students and also people suffering from substance abuse.
Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of nature therapy on mental health.
Reduce Stress
Plants and materials made of natural elements such as wood and stone can take you closer to nature. This acts as a great stress-buster and can create a happy and relaxed atmosphere.
Including indoor plants and using stone/wood wall decor and flooring can transform cold looking interiors into warm and welcoming living spaces.
Psychological effects of being closer to nature include lower blood pressure, and reduced anxiety and depression levels.
Reduce Substance Abuse
One of the most important benefits of nature therapy on mental health is the reported reduction of substance abuse in people from all walks of life.
Whether it is workers, students or someone suffering from mental health problems due to substance abuse, nature and natural elements can do a lot to keep them away from such drugs.
Proximity to fish aquariums, fountains and landscaped gardens stimulate the happy hormones, and keep the mind refreshed and relaxed.
Improve Concentration
Children and adolescents perform better at studies and sports when they are given a natural environment. Their concentration levels show a sharp increase as compared to students who are always living and working in a closed environment.
Other related benefits of nature therapy on mental health include increased resilience, improved self-esteem and increased capacity to engage socially with other members of their community and society at large.
Positive Outlook
Natural light, ventilation, plants, bigger windows and workspaces help create a positive outlook.
Concrete and steel structure, cramped work cubicles, dark and small windows and artificial lighting can impact moods severely leading to depression and anxiety.
The inclusion of indoor plants, open workspaces, and natural light from clear glass windows can go a long way in creating a healthy and balanced work and home environment.
The sooner we realise the benefits of nature therapy on mental health, the sooner can we all live a healthier and better life.