Nature has been scientifically proven to have a positive impact on improving one’s panic
disorder. Spending time outside or in places such as parks, forests, or walking trails can have a calming effect on the mind and body. Nature can improve anxiety
Here are some ways nature can improve anxiety:
1. Reducing Stress: Nature has been shown to reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels.
Harvard University conducted a study where they measured the stress levels of their
student’s before and after spending time outside. They state “Spending at least 20 to 30
minutes immersed in a natural setting was associated with the biggest drop in cortisol
levels. After that time, additional stress-reduction benefit accrued more slowly”. This
proves that when we are surrounded by natural scenery, our bodies release feel-good
hormones like endorphins, which help to reduce anxiety and thus, promote relaxation.
2. Improving Mood: Nature can have a positive impact on our mood, helping to alleviate
anxiety and depression. According to the report written by the Mental Health Foundation
they state “Nature can generate a multitude of positive emotions, such as calmness, joy,
creativity and can facilitate concentration. Nature connectedness is also associated with
lower levels of poor mental health; in particular lower depression and anxiety levels”.
Thus, the greenery, fresh air, and natural light that come with being outdoors can help to
improve our overall sense of well-being.
3. Boosting Physical Activity: Engaging in physical activity outdoors can improve our
mood, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. According to an article written by Franklin
County Public Health they state that “Spending time in nature and the natural light can
improve your mood and reduce stress and depression. Engaging in physical activity
produces similar benefits and oftentimes relaxes and cheers people up.” Furthermore,
Exercise releases endorphins, which help to reduce anxiety and improve mood.
4. Enhancing Mindfulness: Being in nature can help us to be more present in the moment
and mindful of our surroundings. According to the article written by Franklin County
Public Health states “Outdoor exercise stimulates all five senses in a way that indoor
activities cannot. Additionally, being out in nature impacts the brain in a positive way,
making you feel better about yourself”. This can help to reduce anxiety by bringing us
into a state of calm and relaxation.
Overall, spending time in nature can provide a sense of calm and relaxation that can be
beneficial for reducing anxiety. Thus, it is very important to spend time outside. So go outside, without any technology, and go for at least five minutes.
RESOURCES
Fraklin County Public Health. "Benefits of Being Outdoors and Physical Activity." Fraklin
County Public Health, 2 Apr. 2020,
myfcph.org/benefits-of-being-outdoors-and-physical-activity/#:~:text=Spending%20time
%20in%20nature%20and,way%20that%20indoor%20activities%20cannot. Accessed 27
Mar. 2023.
Harvard Health Publishing. "A 20-minute Nature Break Relieves Stress." Harvard Health
Publishing, Harvard Medical School, 1 July 2019,
www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/a-20-minute-nature-break-relieves-stress#:~:tex
t=Protect%20yourself%20from%20the%20damage%20of%20chronic%20inflammation.
&text=Spending%20at%20least%2020%20to,didn't%20affect%20stress%20levels.
Accessed 27 Mar. 2023.
Mental Health Foundation. "How Connecting with Nature Benefits Our Mental Health." Mental
Health Foundation, 2021,
www.mentalhealth.org.uk/our-work/research/nature-how-connecting-nature-benefits-our-
mental-health?scrlybrkr=8e9517f8#:~:text=Nature%20can%20generate%20many%20pos
itive,particularly%20lower%20depression%20and%20anxiety. Accessed 27 Mar. 2023.
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