Nature Therapy for Stress Management

Nature's Measurable Stress Reduction

There is scientific evidence that exposure to nature directly decreases levels of physiological stress. The results that are measurable are the reduced levels of cortisol during certain periods of time. Monitoring of heart rate variability (HRV) has shown activity in this part of the parasympathetic nervous system ("rest and digest") and a negative effect in the sympathetic system ("fight or flight") during and after exposure to natural environments. Measurable decreases in blood pressure can also be noted as documented outcomes. Such objective changes in physiology give credence to the role nature plays as a healthy stress management option.

Physiological Benefits of Natural Settings

Physiological measures of stress have been shown to be reduced by exposure to natural environments. After a period of occupying green spaces, cortisols reduce to a great extent. Nature conditions enhance the equilibrium of the autonomic nervous system, which is supported by higher heart rate variability (HRV), which reflects higher parasympathetic drive and lower sympathetic prowess. Blood pressure also decreases by magnitude when one is exposed to nature. The exposure to nature by sight also is associated with decreased skin conductance. These changes at the physiological level prove the effectiveness of nature therapy in dealing with stress employing the body stress response system. 

Urban Isolation Aggravates Stress Levels

Cities frequently force a form of deep isolation within the density of people. This isolation is a major stressor, as it is proved to increase the level of cortisol and intensify anxiety. Mental resilience is undergoing a burnout as a result of constant exposure to concrete environments, and sensory overload. More importantly, the inaccessible free green spaces deprive the residents of the necessary cushioning against such city stresses. As a result, this isolation is continually experienced in urban areas forming a self-perpetuating cycle of increased stress. Nature therapy is one solution to this particular urban stress dynamic that can be described as an evidence-based countermeasure, a direct intervention in the lack of natural restorative experiences that includes isolation.

Neurochemical Pathways Activated Outdoors

Time spent in natural environments has been shown to alter major neurochemical pathways in stress regulation. The studies affirm the fact that time spent outdoors has a large effect on lowering the levels of cortisol which is the main stress hormone. At the same time, natural environments increase the production of a mood-stabilizing neurotransmitter serotonin. Moreover, movement in green areas provokes the release of endorphins analogues of depression relievers and painkillers in the human body. The overall neurochemical change which is decreased cortisol level, increased serotonin, and increased endorphin is the central biological process behind the effectiveness of nature therapy in managing stresses.

Accessible Natural Stress Relief Strategies

Nature therapy offers convenient stress management that employs scientifically-proven strategies in everyday life. When a person is very briefly exposed to natural elements the cortisol levels are dramatically reduced and the nervous system is stabilized. Some good practices are walking in the parks in town, viewing greenery or conscious attention to the natural things and sounds. There is a proven physiological and psychological benefit of consistent connection, the example of which is urban gardening or the use of community green spaces. These simple exercises are able to help a person manage stress without using voluminous resources.