Summer

Although the British climate is notoriously unpredictable, it is fair to say that on a sunny day our countryside and coastlines  compare favourably to anywhere in the world. A warm sunny day makes it far easier for us to do, well anything really, but especially to make the effort to get outdoors and maybe go to the beach, the park or even just into the garden.

The literature throughout history and across cultures describe natural settings as places of peace, relaxation and wonder, inspiring Artists, Poets and Composers. Nature has, for millennia, attracted the attention of Philosophers and Physicians who have recorded its therapeutic and restorative qualities. In recent years, science has begun to explain the beneficial effects of spending time or even simply looking at natural settings. 

Literally hundreds of studies have been conducted using a wide range of methods to investigate the effects of nature on Human physical and mental wellbeing. The data from this extensive scientific research is overwhelming and conclusive. 

The research argues that the natural world has a beneficial effect on our mental and physical health. Spending time in the natural environment has been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety, stress and depression. It can help to boost the immune system and may reduce the risk of developing many forms of disease.

The research has also identified the ways that this can occur.

Phytoncides

When we spend time in nature amongst trees, plants and flowers, we expose ourselves to Phytoncides. Phytoncides are naturally occurring chemicals produced by plants. These are produced to protect the plants from threats such as insects, funghi and bacteria.

Given that, as a species, we have spent the majority of our time on the planet living and evolving amongst trees and plants it is no surprise to find that we respond positively to Phytoncides. Exposure to Phytoncides has been shown to enhance our immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells which attack and kill viruses in our bodies.

They can also decrease levels of stress and anxiety by reducing the amount of stress hormones such as Cortisol and Adrenaline. Much research has been undertaken into the Japanese concept of Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing. People spend several days living in the Forest to experience these positive benefits of nature.

However, the good news is that some studies have indicated that as little as 20 minutes exposure to trees and plants can bring the same positive benefits. Also, we don’t need to go into a Forest. The local Park, our own garden and even our own house plants will suffice.

Fractals

We can also benefit from nature simply by looking at natural settings, courtesy of Fractals.

Fractals are recurring patterns that are found throughout the natural world. We can see these patterns when we look at the leaves and branches on trees and plants, the waves in the sea, flowing rivers, clouds, coastlines and the stars in the night sky. These geometric designs have been shown to reduce stress levels by up to 60 percent.

Science explains this by suggesting that we have evolved to recognise fractals and consequently find them calming. Research has shown that viewing computer generated natural Fractals increases Alpha wave activity, which is a relaxed state often referred to as Daydreaming. Once again, the benefits of Fractals can be found at the beach, in our local parks, but also by simply looking out of the window at our gardens and at the clouds and stars in the sky.

So, the next time you go to the seaside, the park or even your own garden you may look at them in a whole new way.

BY JOE FORSHAW