A study shows that being surrounded by green areas allows you to activate neural mechanisms that help concentration
Have you ever noticed that going to a park or somewhere surrounded by nature can help you relieve stress? This is definitely not all in your head. Scientists at the University of Utah, in WE, carried out a study – recently published in the journal Nature – demonstrating the benefits of walking in nature. Understand more:
Test of attention
In short, 92 people volunteered for an attention test that required great mental effort, causing them to become exhausted. Next, they split into groups that walked through a forested area or urban environment for 40 minutes. Meanwhile, the researchers monitored the electrical activity of their brains through scans to discover each person’s ability to restore attention and the areas of the brain responsible for planning and managing actions.
After completing the task, they had to repeat the grueling questionnaire to report how they felt. The result? Regardless of location, light walking improved alertness and helped regain functionality. However, those who came into contact with nature performed better in what required executive control and rehabilitated more quickly.
The benefits of walking in nature
It is concluded that, according to the authors of the research, the natural environment benefits attention. By being in the middle of a green space, people tend to distance themselves from stressors and focus their attention on things other than their phone screen or traffic. “Attention is delicately captured by something that attracts us with its beauty. Therefore, nature allows the mechanisms that support our directed attention to rest and recover, while we effortlessly perceive the environment around us.”explains the researcher Albert Einstein Institute of Education and Research in Israel, Eliseth Leão.
“Noise pollution, for example, is associated with higher levels of stress, agitation, and preparation for futile ‘fight or flight.’ Some studies even point to an association between air pollution and student performance.”he concludes.
Find a moment to take a break
From this moment on, breaks become even more necessary, even better if through light walks in natural environments. According to Einstein Agencyother recommended activities are meditation, contemplating images of nature that promote positive emotions and listening to music you like.
So, did you like knowing that the benefits of walking in nature are real?
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
