Off into the countryside: why nature slows us down

We are forced to spend almost the entire day indoors. On foot, we are usually only out and about in the city, surrounded by street noise and hectic life, which brings little relaxation. Our happiness expert Dr. Sandra Boltz therefore advises us to head out into the countryside, as spending time in nature has a positive effect on our well-being.

Idee für mich
via Sabrina
02/15/2018, 18:30
Ab in die Natur: Nur fünf Minuten in der Natur wirken sich bereits positiv auf unser Wohlbefinden aus.© iStock
Get out into nature: Just five minutes in nature has a positive effect on our well-being.
Dr. Sandra Boltz ist Lehrerin und als Dozentin in der universitären Lehrerausbildung und Weiterbildung tätig. Die Autorin und psychologische Beraterin hat das Programm ICare entwickelt und damit bereits dem Glück von vielen Lesern auf die Sprünge geholfen.© privat
Dr. Sandra Boltz is a teacher and works as a lecturer in university teacher training and further education. The author and psychological consultant developed the ICare program and has already helped many readers to boost their happiness.

The constant flood of stimuli and impressions that we are exposed to, especially in the city, tires us out and puts a strain on us in the long term. We feel overwhelmed and consequently tired. In nature, on the other hand, our attention is confronted with fewer stimuli. Letting your gaze rest on a sublime treetop, lost in thought, counteracts the mental exhaustion that results from the abundance of stimuli in everyday life. Spending time in nature really clears the mind, relaxes and refreshes.

Calmer and more balanced

Scientific studies have shown that walks in the forest, for example, lower blood pressure and heart rate. The release of adrenaline and therefore stress levels are significantly lower than after a tour of the city. We feel calmer and more balanced.

In Japan, "shinrin-yoku", or "forest bathing", is therefore recommended by doctors to alleviate stress and cardiovascular diseases. Leisurely walks in the middle of the forest, preferably in silence, to fully appreciate nature.

Five minutes in the countryside

Spending time in nature has been proven to strengthen our physical and mental health. We don't have to go on an hour-long hike to do this. It only takes five minutes in the countryside for us to demonstrably calm down.

So how about a nice walk in nature today? Treat yourself to some time out and consciously leave distractions such as your cell phone at home. Immerse yourself completely in the pristine tranquillity of nature. Enjoy the sublimity with all your senses and consciously ask yourself: What do I see? What do I smell? What do I hear? Off into the countryside!

You can find more tips from our happiness expert Dr. Sandra Boltz in her book "ICare. 30 days. Mindfulness. Happiness", J. Kamphausen Media Group, via Amazon, €14.95