A Scientist's Guide To Life How To Get The Best From Nature

Lockdown may limit the time we can spend outdoors, but environmental psychologist Alex Smalley explains how you can get the benefits of being in nature, even if you’re stuck inside

- Alex Smalley

NATURE IS GOOD FOR YOU

Studies prove this beyond doubt. We see biological markers of stress reduction and improvements in psychological wellbeing when people spend time in the natural world. Nature helps us to unwind after a difficult day. It can lead to an increase in positive emotions and a reduction in negative thought patterns, such as rumination. It’s good for the environment too. Research suggests that people who feel more connected to nature are more likely to develop pro-environmental behavior.

YOU DON’T NEED TO GO FAR

Nature is all around. Just look outside or open a window. Be purposeful. Take the time to stop, and really look and listen. You’ll start to notice things that you never spotted before.

LISTENING TO NATURE IS LIKE A SUPERPOWER

When you walk past a hedgerow, you can’t see the birds that are inside it. But if you learn to identify a few calls and then stop to listen, you might hear a wren, or a goldfinch, or a robin.

LINGER IN BLUE SPACES