Green Spaces, Happy Places
Embrace the benefits found just beyond the front door.
by Deanna Soukhaseum
As the school year progresses, we often find ourselves buried under a mountain of due dates, assignments, and responsibilities. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s so easy to forget the simple joys that nature offers.
The vibrant colors of autumn leaves, the crisp air of a morning walk, and the soothing sounds of birds chirping can be easily forgotten as we deal with the pressures of life. Yet, stepping outside and reconnecting with nature can be a powerful antidote to our stress, offering a moment of peace and a reminder of the beauty that exists beyond our screens and schedules.
We might assume we’re too busy with school or work to spend time outdoors, but studies suggest that taking nature breaks can actually improve our performance by enhancing visual processing speed, attention spans, cortisol levels, and reducing burnout symptoms. In addition to improving the productivity and quality of our work, spending as little as 30 minutes in green spaces can make us happier overall. An Australian study suggested that doing so can also reduce depressive symptoms.
Being outside in green spaces is especially crucial in urban areas like Boston, where there are all sorts of air and noise pollution. Vegetation helps improve the air we breathe by removing chemicals and filtering our nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide. While we might be used to the loud sounds of the city, excessive noise pollution can cause stress. However, being surrounded by plants can help deflect this noise.
While most research focuses on the benefits of green spaces such as parks and forests, surrounding yourself with blue spaces like rivers and streams can be just as impactful. Blue spaces can promote a sense of calm, disconnect us from our daily routines, promote better sleep, and stimulate our senses, which can be psychologically healing.
From a quick 10-minute stroll in the park to spending the weekend camping in the wild, there are so many ways to experience the beauty of nature and receive the countless benefits that go along with it. We just have to step outside into nature and breathe in the fresh air.
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