There have been many times where I’ve been upset or needed to process emotions, and I decided to go on a walk outside. I would sometimes walk with someone else to discuss what’s going on, or other times I would walk by myself. Even if I didn’t come to an emotional conclusion, I felt better after going on those walks.
Not only do I have personal evidence of outdoor benefits, but research shows great value attributed to time spent in nature.

Mental health improvements
According to University of California, Davis (UCD), being in nature can reduce anxiety levels and decrease feelings of stress and anger. There are also increased opportunities for socializing, whether you are interacting with friends and family or strangers you happen to pass on a trail. I ran cross country as a middle school and high school student, and I attribute many of my friendships through those practices where we could bond.
Research described by the American Psychological Association (APA) discusses how those in contact with natural environments have improved working memory and cognitive flexibility versus those in urban environments were experiencing attention deficits. Nature itself proves itself to be restorative, especially when it comes to our mental health.

Physical health improvements
Not only can being in nature improve your mental state, but it can enhance your physical health as well. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) describes the ways in which your body responds to being outdoors. Your immune system can be boosted, especially after breathing in forest air, and spending time in nature lowers blood pressure levels, which means improved heart health.
I know for myself, by being outside I am more likely to be moving around more and getting steps in, which adds to health benefits too.

Photo and audio benefits
Interestingly, even just seeing pictures of nature or hearing nature sounds can lead to benefits (APA). If people are exposed to videos of nature settings instead of urban settings, they have better attention, more positive emotions and can reflect on life problems.
There was also a study that showed listening to nature sounds (crickets, waves) versus urban sounds (café, traffic) meant performing better on cognitive tests. I wonder if listening to nature in the background while studying would be helpful in that case.

More time outdoors
With all this in mind, how can we find ways to spend more time outside? I know for myself, finding the time to explore new hiking trails or scheduling calls with friends and walking while on the phone are ways I can increase my time outdoors. What are the ways you’ll make time to spend time in nature?