Study Says Mental Health Quality Can Be Improved By Diligently Activities In The Open

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JAKARTA - Nature has a tremendous impact on humans. One of the natural functions is to provide food, clean water, and other raw materials that support survival. In addition, nature also contributes to bringing prosperity to the soul.

A 2022 paper published in Science, based on a systematic review of more than 300 studies conducted in 61 countries. Finding that spending time in nature has a positive effect on mental health.

Reporting from Psychology Today, Wednesday, August 16, interacting with nature allows us to have good relations with others. Spending a lot of time in nature can also affect human instincts and improve the sensitivity of experiences and feelings related to spirituality. In addition, nature is able to lift a mood that makes changes in attitude and behavior better.

Another study found that there are significant differences in the cognitive function of people spending time in nature with those in urban environments. Those in nature experience increased cognitive flexibility, working memory, and focus. While people in urban areas have a lower level of focus.

Obviously, being outdoors offers many psychological benefits. Seeing this, experts in the health sector then apply natural therapy or ecotherapy. Ecotherapy is a method that is developing in mental health therapy. Those who try to take advantage of natural forces to help individuals manage mental health better.

There are two best activities in nature that you can do in improving psychological quality.

1. Awareness Exercise in Nature

The mindfulness characteristic is living today. A 2020 study found that mindful or fully conscious while in nature has a positive impact on psychological well-being. Take advantage of nature to improve the quality of mental health. If you live near the hill, go climb. Happy to be on the beach, go swimming. If you have an adventurer spirit, try camping. If you prefer not to do anything, try after the trees in your favorite garden.

The point is, during life with mindful and enjoying all the scenery and sounds of nature. Being outdoors has a significant impact on the satisfaction of life.

2. Exercise in nature

Exercise has many benefits both physically and mentally. A meta-analytical study in 2023 revealed that exercise is at least 150 minutes per week, much more effective in reducing symptoms of general mental health conditions. Such as depression, anxiety, and psychological stress compared to traditional treatment methods.

In order to have a double effect, do sports such as jogging, cycling, or hiking in parks, forests, or beaches. Do yoga or tai chi in a park or green space. Play with friends or family outdoors. Gardening or farming in the backyard of the house.

After doing so, pay attention to how the body reacts to these activities.

There is no need to visit expensive and remote places to feel the benefits of nature for mental health. The important thing is to routinely visit open spaces around us. Although urban life forces into a modern environment, it is very important to remember that nature is the best healing for the body and soul.