{"id":756,"date":"2025-01-03T08:29:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-03T08:29:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/billyoh.com\/resource\/?page_id=756"},"modified":"2025-01-03T08:29:00","modified_gmt":"2025-01-03T08:29:00","slug":"the-psychology-of-outdoor-living-how-nature-can-transform-your-mental-and-physical-health","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/billyoh.com\/resource\/the-psychology-of-outdoor-living-how-nature-can-transform-your-mental-and-physical-health\/","title":{"rendered":"The Psychology of Outdoor Living: How Nature Can Transform Your Mental and Physical Health"},"content":{"rendered":"

Humans used to spend most of the day outside. Maybe that\u2019s why studies show that just 20 minutes of outdoor time can reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone in our bodies, by over<\/span> 20%<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The earth is in our DNA, and spending time in nature, even in our own back garden, can drastically change our physical and mental health. Below, we dive into the surprising mental health benefits of nature and explore ways to turn your outdoor space into your own stress free oasis.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Mental Health Benefits of Outdoor Living<\/span><\/h2>\n

Nature is our natural habitat. And it is still the best place for our brains to relax. As we live ever more complicated lifestyles, anxiety, depression, addictions, and high levels of stress can begin to rule our thoughts.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Spending short periods outside can greatly benefit our minds and regulate our emotions. Increasing your time outdoors and building out your garden can help your mental state, offering:<\/span><\/p>\n

Reduced stress hormones<\/span><\/h3>\n

It\u2019s almost impossible to navigate a modern lifestyle without a build-up of stress. Much more than a state of mind, stress is a silent killer. Work schedules, family duties, and the general expectations of the rat race create constant spikes of stress hormones, leaving us dealing with regular fight-or-flight emotions.<\/span><\/p>\n

Getting some fresh air to feel better isn\u2019t just an old wives\u2019 tale. Spending just 20 minutes outside in nature can reduce cortisol levels by over 20%. A simple way to make big gains for your mental health, just stepping out into your garden is one of the best ways to improve your mindset.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Enhanced focus<\/span><\/h3>\n

Being on the go all day requires our attention. A lot of it. And by the time we turn in for the night, our brains are exhausted from staying alert all day. Over time, our busy brains can\u2019t quite keep up the pace. Tired minds start to miss details and slip into auto-pilot mode whenever possible.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Spending time outdoors, even sitting on your patio at home, gives your brain a vital rest. Slowing the speed of busy stimuli and taking in soothing sights and sounds, your brain returns refreshed and ready to focus.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Better sleep<\/span><\/h3>\n

On the surface we know daylight is for activity and nighttime is for sleep. But life doesn\u2019t really work that way, does it?<\/span><\/p>\n

Artificial office lighting and staying up till the early hours reading a bestseller can really affect our circadian rhythm, the body\u2019s natural regulation system for sleep. A good circadian rhythm is not just vital to feeling fresh in the mornings; it also regulates these vital systems:<\/span><\/p>\n