Why we need to spend time outdoors

In the cacophony of modern life, so many of us spend increasing amounts of time looking at screens and navigating built-up areas. It can become easy to fall into a groove of moving from home to work and work to home, if we even leave the house at all, without encountering natural spaces.

And how does that make you feel?

For me, the answer is irritable, stressed, anxious, flat. None of these are good feelings and wonder if you feel the same. Contrast that with times when you pass through or spend time in natural places either intentionally or as a by-product of the routes you take through daily life. I find weaving patches of green throughout my days life-altering and when I do, I am much more likely to be calm, engaged, creative, engaged and energetic.

The restorative benefits of spending time in nature — created in Midjourney by the author

This experience can be explained by the Biophilia Hypothesis. Coined by the eminent biologist E.O. Wilson, this idea explains the innate connection between humans and the natural world. At its core, the Biophilia Hypothesis suggests that humans possess an intrinsic and evolution-driven affinity for nature and shines a light on the profound impact of reconnecting with the environment our species evolved in and with.

The biophilia hypothesis contends that our biological connection to nature is hardwired, stemming from our ancestors’ dependence on natural environments for survival. Although we might find natural spaces beautiful, this inherent connection goes beyond aesthetics; it’s a fundamental part of our identity that, when embraced, can yield an array of physical, mental, and emotional benefits like those I feel when I spend time in natural spaces.

The Peak District National Park — one of my favourite natural spaces (Photo by Zhi Xuan Hew on Unsplash)

In a society grappling with stress, anxiety, and a barrage of technological stimuli, time spent outdoors can become not just a leisurely pursuit but a holistic prescription for our well-being. Here are five key benefits of spending time in natural spaces according to the biophilia hypothesis:

1. Mental Rejuvenation: Natural areas provide a sanctuary for mental rejuvenation and importantly, this doesn’t have be the drama and beauty of a national park. This benefit, and the others listed below, can be sought from gardens, parks and scraps of nature found throughout our neighbourhoods. The biophilia hypothesis suggests that exposure to nature can alleviate stress, reduce mental fatigue, and enhance cognitive function. A walk in the woods, a moment of contemplation by a flowing stream or 5 minutes spent on a park bench becomes a mental reset button, allowing us to navigate the demands of daily life with greater clarity.
2. Physical Well-being: The great outdoors beckon us to move, breathe, and engage our bodies in physical activity thereby breaking the monotony of any sedentary routines we might fall into. Whether it’s a brisk hike along a scenic trail or a cycle through a park on the way to work, the physical benefits are abundant. The Biophilia Hypothesis suggests that regular engagement with nature contributes not only to overall fitness but exercising in natural spaces combines the physical fitness benefits with positive emotional benefits.
3. Emotional Resilience: Nature possesses an unparalleled ability to alleviate stress and nurture emotional well-being. Green spaces act as natural stress relievers, lowering cortisol levels and promoting a sense of calm. The immersive experience of nature encourages mindfulness, allowing us to momentarily detach from the pressures of daily life resulting in emotional resilience, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, and an enhanced overall sense of well-being.
4. Connection and Social Bonds: Beyond personal well-being, the biophilia hypothesis acknowledges the social dimension of our relationship with nature. Outdoor activities are often social, shared experiences, from family picnics in local parks to group hikes in the countryside or wilderness areas. The hypothesis suggests that these shared moments foster a sense of community and belonging. Nature’s backdrop becomes the setting for memorable interactions, enhancing social bonds and promoting a sense of interconnectedness.
5. Environmental Awareness and Stewardship: The biophilia hypothesis not only emphasises the benefits for the individual but also nurtures a heightened awareness of environmental issues with benefits for our wider society. The first-hand experience of natural ecosystems fosters an appreciation for the delicate balance of nature and encourages a sense of responsibility toward the environment. This heightened environmental consciousness can become a powerful tool in addressing global challenges such as climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.

An oak tree in my local park in Sheffield, UK

The Biophilia Hypothesis invites us to recognise the relationship between humans and nature. Time spent outdoors becomes more than a leisurely pursuit; it’s an essential investment in our holistic well-being. So, let’s heed the call of the great outdoors, embrace the healing touch of nature, and allow the Biophilia Hypothesis to guide us toward a healthier, more balanced existence. For me, this explains so much of my experience when I spend time in nature and, indeed, when I don’t. I now make a point of walking in my local park each day that I am working from home, and on the days that I don’t I try to take 20 minutes in a local green space close to my office. When I don’t, I am not always nice to live with either for myself or my partner. How do you interact with natural spaces? And do you experience similar benefits or issues depending on whether you do or don’t? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments.