Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn.- Elizabeth Lawrence

Are you feeling stressed? Spend some time watching the leaves fall.

Get outside and go for a short walk or just sit in nature. No time for that? You can simply look at pictures of nature for five minutes and that can calm you down.

It’s scientifically proven. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health suggests placing photos of nature on your desk. Their report states; "Viewing green scenes may thus be particularly effective in supporting relaxation and recovery after experiencing a stressful period and thereby could serve as an opportunity for micro-restorative experiences and a promising tool in preventing chronic stress and stress-related diseases."

In other words, looking at photos of greenery or nature work to help you recover from stress. Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear to work to look at pictures before a stressful situation. But who knows, maybe it would work for you.

Personally, I prefer being outside, especially walking my dogs. I stay off my phone and enjoy the time with them.

 So here is what nature can do for you; lower your blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance your immune system function, increase your self-esteem, reduce anxiety and improve your mood.

Isn’t is incredible what a quick trip to the park can do for your mind and body.

📷 Benjamin Lecomte/ Unsplash