The Healing Power Of Nature

Nature has a protective effect on our bodies and brains.

We are measurably healthier after spending time in nature. Studies show that spending time in nature lowers stress, elevates our mood and boosts our immune system. It also has positive effects on heart rate and blood pressure, replenishes our attention reserves and helps us cultivate a more positive mindset.

One study found that after just 2 days of spending time in nature, people were not only more relaxed, but the “Natural Killer” cell activity in their bodies increased by 53%, and the number of “Natural Killer” cells in their blood rose by 50%. Natural killer cells are instrumental to our immune system and basically destroy any virally infected cell in our bodies.

Brief exposures have powerful, long-lasting effects.

You don’t need to move to a remote cabin in the woods in order to reap the benefits of nature. A nice view or even a scent can do the trick.

A study done in 1984 showed that hospital patients with windows that faced trees recovered quicker, and asked for less pain medication, than patients who had a view of a brick wall.

I live in New York City, so Central Park is the best I can do when it comes to access to nature, but it’s not a bad option! It’s especially important to find time to disengage if you live in a city. The constant sensory signals in urban environments stress our minds and bodies out in profound ways, which we may not even realize because we are used to it.

I encourage you to find time to “deliberately disengage” – put your phone away, get outside, or find a view and just observe. Doing this for just 20 minutes a week replenishes our attention reserves and allows you to focus and be more present when you need to be.

Another tip - if you live in a city like me, get an air diffuser with hinoki essential oil and put it in your room when you sleep. Hinoki is a Japanese tree that emits phytoncides (protective chemicals) into the air that give our minds and bodies a major boost. This particular scent has been shown to increase the number and activity of “Natural Killer” cells in our body, decrease stress, and improve sleep & mood.

Finds ways to bring nature into your life – big or small. It all makes a difference. Allow your mind and body to Reflect & Recharge.