The Pandemic May Have Strengthened Our Relationship with Nature

 

A recent survey by the University of Vermont reports people have gotten out in nature much more during the pandemic than in prior times. The online survey found that 3,200 Vermonters between May 3 and May 19, 2020, who were at the time under the State’s strictest quarantine rules, not only got out in nature more but felt better for doing it.

As many as 70 percent of participants reported they were walking more, and 64% percent said they were spending more time wildlife watching. Relaxation accounted for 58% of the reason people got out in nature, and taking photos or creating art increased by as much as 54 percent.

All told, 60 percent of those surveyed said they felt that simply getting out in nature improved their mental health and wellbeing. While 29 percent said they got out mainly for exercise, another 29 percent reported appreciating nature’s beauty and 22 percent felt connect to something bigger than themselves.

The Harvard Publishing Health journal also recently reported on an emerging scientific field called ecotherapy, which finds a strong link between time spent in nature and a reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression. In a 2015 study, researchers report that “those who did a nature walk had lower activity in the prefrontal cortex, a brain region that is active during rumination — defined as repetitive thoughts that focus on negative emotions.” So no more excuses; head out to a local park and start enjoying nature as it is not only good for your physical health but your mental health.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community is situated on 8.8 acres and offers seniors a welcoming, comfortable home for carefree retirement years. In addition to independent living and assisted living, we also provide compassionate, holistic memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases. We also want new residents to know that they will have priority access to the COVID vaccine. Please visit our website to learn more.

MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. We are in a warm, loving environment with exceptional architecture and resort-style amenities. Please visit our website to learn more about the area’s most trusted independent living & assisted living.

Source:

medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-has-the-pandemic-influenced-our-relationship-with-nature#The-benefits

health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/sour-mood-getting-you-down-get-back-to-nature