In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it’s easy to become disconnected from the natural environment. However, immersing ourselves in nature offers us profound benefits for both our physical and mental health. So, let’s explore how engaging with the natural world can improve our well-being. Great news for anyone interested in, working towards or already enjoying an ecology or conservation career.
The Calming Influence of Green Spaces
It has been shown by multiple studies that the colour green, has a soothing effect on our mental health. Exposure to the colour green has been linked to lower heart rates and reduced stress levels. Studies suggest that perceiving the colour green, even in non-natural settings can have calming and relaxing effects on humans.
Incorporating green into our daily lives, can put us in a more relaxed and less anxious state. Whether through spending time in nature, adding plants to our homes, or gardening. Experts suggest that even wearing certain colours can have a significant impact on mood and stress levels. The colour green being highly recommended for its calming properties.
Soil Microbes: Nature’s Antidepressants
Engaging with soil, whether through your hands or simply walking barefoot on the earth, exposes us to beneficial microorganisms. Notably, a soil bacterium called Mycobacterium vaccae has been found to stimulate serotonin production, acting similarly to antidepressant medications. This natural interaction can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Research conducted at the University of Bristol demonstrated that mice treated with Mycobacterium vaccae exhibited increased serotonin metabolism in the prefrontal cortex, a region of the brain involved in mood regulation. This suggests that with an increased exposure to soil microbes, we could become less dependent on the global antidepressant industry. An industry which is currently valued at around $17 billion.
Natural Scents
Beyond visual beauty, nature’s fragrances can play a significant role in our health too. The scents of forests, flowers, and fresh earth can trigger positive emotional responses, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. For instance, the aroma of lavender has been extensively studied for its calming effects. Similarly, rosemary is known to promote concentration and focus. The smell of cedar, ginger and eucalyptus have been known to significantly increase T-cell production in our blood. This could improve our immune response, bolstering our natural defences against illness.
Sounds
Natural sounds, such as birdsong, rustling leaves, and flowing water, have a profound impact on our well-being. So listening to these sounds can decrease stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive performance. Research indicates that listening to natural sounds promotes relaxation and can even aid in physical healing. So far the jury is out on whether bat sounds through a bat detector help, but we think they at least bring us great joy!
Forest Bathing
In Japan, the practice of “Shinrin-yoku,” or forest bathing, has been embraced as a form of natural therapy, and is even prescribed by doctors. This involves immersing oneself in a forest environment, engaging all five senses to fully experience the surroundings. Studies have shown that forest bathing can lower blood pressure and reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. The practice encourages mindfulness and a deep connection with nature, offering a respite from the stresses of modern life. This is one reason why woodland maintenance is such an important job.
Those of us who are lucky enough to work outdoors can do “micro bathing” where we take small fragments of time out during our working day to be present and mindful in the environment we are in. Even engaging with this for a few minutes a day, can lower stress levels and actually make you happier. Also, remembering to be present and grateful for the time that we get to spend outdoors and around nature is a great way to improve your (already high, we hope!) job satisfaction too.
Naturally Better Health
Studies have shown that individuals who spend at least two hours per week in natural environments report significantly better health and well-being. This is fabulous news for anyone working in the environmental sector. It’s no wonder the industry is so popular to work in.
The World Health Organization emphasizes that urban green spaces, such as parks and playgrounds, can promote mental and physical health by providing psychological relaxation, stimulating social cohesion, and reducing exposure to air pollutants. As ecologists and conservation workers it is essential that we understand the importance of these spaces for everyone, including the wildlife we work with.
To connect with nature from home, introducing house plants, growing a garden, taking regular walks in green spaces and even just looking at gardens can have a positive effect on your mental and physical health. If you want to learn more about improving your health naturally, we highly recommend reading the book Good Nature by Kathy Willis or Losing Eden by Lucy Jones. If gardening is your thing, try reading The Well Gardened Mind by Sue Stuart Smith.
Working Outdoors
If you want to work outdoors and experience the restorative value of nature for yourself, why now try one of our range of courses. A great place to start is with Introduction to Ecology which will give you a firm footing in the world of ecology and conservation. Or, if you’re interested in protecting animals and wildlife, consider one of our ecology and surveying courses to learn about individual species and how to help protect them. If you want a full introduction to conservation why not try our Certificate in Conservation Management, designed to give you everything you need to know to go from no experience to employment, or move on further into ecological consultancy.
We have a wide range of online and face to face courses available for anyone wanting to start a career working outdoors, or anyone wanting to develop skills in their existing job.
