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Nature Nurtures Us: 3 Theories Explain Why
Science reveals that nature immersion boosts brain function and mental health
Cat videos have clawed their way to the top the list of most popular online attractions. Millions cheered the arrival of deer, coyotes, bears, mountain lions and other photogenic mammals in urban areas during COVID lockdowns. Budget cutters recently backed off from firing park workers after public outcry to preserve our shared wild spaces.
People really like animals and the outdoors.
The narrative that nature is healing resonates with a lot of people. Mental health facilities advertise programs with an immersion in nature; they know that it will lure in clients. Some facilities promote the psychological benefits of options such as horseback riding, sleeping under the stars, or visits from pets.
Might this all be New-Age blather about tree-hugging and sitting under crystals? An increasingly large body of research is demonstrating some of the benefits of exposure to nature for mental health. This information can be particularly useful at a time when some of our leaders show disregard or even disdain for natural environments, wildlife, and outdoor recreation.
