While working indoors provides you with the ability to control the temperature, you may have to endure those fluorescent lights. Being outside has many benefits for your mental well-being that you can’t replace with the great indoors.
This begs the question of what scenery is the best: urban streets or green forest? A research study questioned this exact predicament and found that participants who had gone on a nature walk instead of an urban walk experienced a significant increase in memory span.
Evidence shows that you improve your memory and are happier when outside in natural, green environments. A recent research study noted that urbanization has been linked to mental illness. Participants in this study who walked 90 minutes through a natural environment presented as a lower risk for mental illness. Other studies showed just five minutes of a “green” exercise promoted a boost in mood and self-esteem.
As the science is growing, the message seems to be the same; spending time outdoors in nature can promote better mental well-being.
Written by: Brianna Ballard, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern. Learn more about Wellness Workdays and our wellness program offerings by downloading our brochure.
Sources: 1. Harvard Health Publishing 2. PNAS 3. Journal of Affective Disorders