Want to Be More Mindful? Spend Time Outside

Slowing down can be challenging when you are moving full-speed ahead five days a week. We’re constantly bombarded with emails, phone calls, text messages and meetings – the list goes on. Consciously taking a moment to center yourself and be present has many benefits. Practicing mindfulness can help you stay in the moment and make your workday a little easier to manage. And one way to do that is to spend time in nature.

Spending time in nature provides countless physical and mental benefits. Scientists are starting to discover evidence that has a deep impact on the human brain and behavior. Spending time in nature can act as a method of reflection and can enhance many areas of our lives.

While scientists may believe nature enhances our total wellbeing, we live in a society where people spend an increasing amount of time indoors and online. Discoveries on how nature positively impacts our brains brings added legitimacy for spending more time in nature in order to lead happier, healthier and more fulfilled lives.

Science shows being in nature may have the following effects on our brains and bodies:

Decreases stress

Helps us become happier and less brooding

Relieves attention fatigue

Helps us to be kinder and more generous

Helps to make us feel more alive

Sources

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272494405801847

http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2014/834360/