The natural environment holds particular sway over our emotional well-being. the location, environment, and setting of a place can have significant effects on the human condition. e location, environment, and setting of a place can have significant effects on the human condition. One example is in “wilderness therapy.” This form of therapy has been used to help people struggling with emotional problems such as drug addiction, anxiety, or depression. One study found
In another study, researchers from the University of Exeter Medical School and the Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry found that most people know this intuitively. Think about a beautiful forest or a picturesque view of the ocean. Such environments are often used as settings for romantic encounters or weddings, because they can help to enhance feelings of peacefulness, happiness, and wonder.
A large number of respondents to the research also indicated that being in nature helped them to be more creative or artistic, or helped them to express appreciation for the beauty in their lives. Being out in nature can have lasting benefits on our well-being.
Kathleen Wolf, an environmental social scientist at the University of Washington, said there are several reasons why people might feel better amid trees. She suggests that simply being near greenery can decrease blood pressure and levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) in our bodies. Another study found that just viewing photos of nature improve attention spans and moods. Walking along a busy downtown street, you might not think to take a deep breath and relax. But green spaces are well known for the many positive effects they have on our bodies.
One study even found that just viewing photos of nature can improve attention spans and moods. The natural environment holds particular sway over our emotional well-being. One example is in “wilderness therapy.” This form of therapy has been used to help people struggling with emotional problems such as drug addiction, anxiety, or depression
