Picture yourself taking a leisurely walk along a wooded path,
sun peeking through the trees. Feel relaxed already? Several recent studies suggest
that spending time outdoors has both mental
and physical benefits. The latest one takes that research a step
further: it used a brain scan to capture nature’s effect on how we think.
In the study, researchers asked 38 residents of an urban area to
take a walk. Half strolled through a natural area, while the other half walked
along a busy road.
Before and after the study, participants filled out a survey
that aimed to capture their thinking patterns. In particular, the surveys measured
participants’ tendency toward rumination. That style of often negative,
inward-looking thinking is linked with a higher depression risk.
Participants also had their brains scanned before and after the
walk.
The results? Questionnaires revealed that the participants who
took a nature walk changed their thinking pattern. Brain scans matched those
improved moods.
“This provides robust results for us that nature experience,
even of a short duration, can decrease this pattern of thinking that is
associated with the onset, in some cases, of mental illnesses like depression,”
Gregory Bratman, the lead author of the study, told The Washington Post.
More research is needed to learn more about the link between
nature walks and improved mental health. Exercise already provides a health
boost, though, so there’s already a strong case for taking your walk through
the park.
Want to enjoy the benefits of a nature walk while meeting members
of the Parkinson’s community and supporting critical research? Meet up with Sam
Fox (no relation to Michael) and fellow supporters as Tour de Fox makes its way
across the country this summer. Many of the hikes require no hiking experience
— just a good pair of a shoes and love of the outdoors.
Posted by Nancy Ryerson,
http://www.healthfeeds.co/2016/02/08/nature-walks-may-be-good-for-your-brain-study-finds-advanced-mold-remediation/
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