A life surrounded by nature seems like something only people living in rural areas can experience, but with some planning, you can create an urban oasis of green and blue that brings you closer to nature and improves your quality of life. No matter what size space you have to work with, there are simple ways to live more ecologically and healthily. Here are the top ten benefits of living in nature, no matter where you are.
1) Increased Happiness
1) Stay Blessed
2) Breathing Easier
3) Better Sleep
4) More Energy
5) Improved Concentration and Memory
6) Reduced Stress Levels
7) Slower Aging
2) Improved Sleep Quality
-A study done by the National Sleep Foundation found that attending to environmental needs was one of the top five things people could do to help improve their sleep quality.
-This can include everything from reducing exposure to light and noise, to keeping a consistent bedtime routine. -In other words, it’s important to make sure that your home environment is conducive for sleep.
-Maintaining good sleep hygiene will also help you maintain good health as well.
3) Decreased Stress Levels
When you live in nature, you’re surrounded by natural beauty and sounds. This can lower your stress levels immensely because being able to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life is something everyone could use. The earth provides an outlet for all those stressful feelings that we get from living with so many people. When we are outside, our senses are heightened which can lead to a feeling of calmness. There is something about being out in the open air that makes everything seem more manageable.
4) Increased Creativity
Research has found that living in nature can increase creativity. Studies have shown that subjects are more likely to generate novel ideas when they’re exposed to nature than when they’re sitting inside. A Harvard study showed that being in natural surroundings not only boosted creativity, but also improved people’s ability to solve problems and think abstractly. The best part? You don’t need a ton of space, either–studies have shown the benefits even happen with just a 30-second exposure.
5) Improved Physical Health
Living in nature provides a range of physical health benefits. Exposure to natural light helps regulate the body’s internal clock and circadian rhythm, reducing the risk of depression and improving sleep quality. Natural light also plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin and reducing wrinkles. Exposure to air pollution is reduced, which can reduce symptoms associated with asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), allergic rhinitis, and other respiratory diseases. In addition, green space encourages physical activity by providing an accessible location for walking or biking where you live. Green space also has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve moods.
6) Improved Mental Health
Living in nature has been shown to improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase happiness. One study found that people who live near green spaces are more likely to be more active and less depressed. Researchers have also found that living near parks improves mood and reduces symptoms of depression. It’s been suggested that being outside with nature can promote a sense of awe which can help make people feel connected to the world around them. Studies have also found evidence suggesting that exposure to natural environments reduces anxiety and increases relaxation by reducing levels of cortisol, a hormone released by the body when we feel stressed. In addition, studies have shown that spending time outdoors can reduce fatigue, which means you’ll be able to perform better at work or during tasks at home.
7) Increased Sense of Awe and Wonder
There are many benefits to living in nature, but the one that stands out for me is a sense of purpose. People who live in nature have more empathy and an increased sense of connection with people and the world around them. People who live in nature are also less likely to feel lonely or experience mental health problems like depression. Research has shown that people who experience these benefits are not only happier, they’re more productive at work and happier at home too.
8) Improved Connection to Others
One benefit of living in nature is an improved connection to the Earth. Being surrounded by nature helps us get back in touch with our roots and live more simply, which makes us happier and healthier. When we are disconnected from nature, stress levels increase and it becomes harder for our minds to rest. Spending time outside can help reduce stress levels and keep our minds healthy. Not only does this improve physical health, but it also leads to a sense of peace that may not be attainable by other means.
9) Improved Connection to the Earth
1. Improved Connection to the Earth: Hiking through a forest or walking along a beach, you can’t help but feel connected to the earth and all its beauty. A connection to nature is important for our spiritual well-being. When we are out in nature, we are reminded how small we are and the importance of being thankful for what we have. #2. Fresh Air: The air outside is cleaner than inside so when you spend time outdoors, you breathe easier and your lungs thank you! #3. Exercise: Just taking a walk around your block will get your blood flowing and give you an energy boost that lasts all day!
10) Increased sense of Purpose
Living in nature can help you to feel connected to the world around you. This connection can give you a sense of purpose that may not have been there before. You’ll find yourself caring more about what happens on Earth than what happens on Facebook. As a result, your quality of life improves and you can start living with a sense of balance and wholeness. You’ll be able to enjoy your surroundings and all they have to offer, which will result in the rejuvenation that comes from being present and alive. Being outside helps us connect with our natural environment and spend time enjoying it rather than just watching it on TV or online. And that’s just scratching the surface! There are many other benefits which are sure to please even the most skeptical among us!