Nature promotes vitality in people, study finds

Conservationists often cite “human health and well-being” as a benefit of their work.  While this often refers to clean air and water for human consumption, there are other health benefits to be found in nature.

Research has shown that viewing images of nature can reduce stress and depression.  Hospitals now often include gardens or park areas for patients to visit, understanding that this connection to nature facilitates the healing process.  Many of us head outside for a walk to relax.

It may seem contradictory to think that interaction with nature can simultaneously relax and energize us, but this seems to be the case.  Richard Ryan of the University of Rochester has led a series of studies into the more dynamic “vitalizing effects of immersing oneself in nature.”

It appears from his research that interaction with nature, whether actual or imagined, has a significantly positive effect on self-reported levels of mental and physical energy.  Past research has shown that increased energy, or vitality, correlates with greater resistance to illnesses.

Using a series of studies involving hypothetical scenarios, images, outdoor and indoor activities and self-reported daily activities, Ryan and his group assessed self-reported measures of vitality before and after exposure to or engagement with nature.  In all situations, study participants reported higher levels of vitality after some interaction with nature.

There are other aspects of being outdoors that have been shown to enhance vitality, namely social interactions and physical exercise.  However, Ryan’s analysis shows that exposure to natural elements can, by itself, increase vitality, in the absence of social or physical activity.

Time spent outdoors, and the resulting improved health, may result in fiscal benefits, as well.

As reported by The New York Times, some companies are providing employees with garden plots at their workplace, and encouraging them to take time out of the work day to tend beets, harvest tomatoes and eat the resulting bounty in corporate cafeterias. 

The investment in establishing gardening programs is expected to provide economic benefits– by increasing outdoor activity and encouraging healthier diets, companies can save on health care costs in the long run.  As the results from Ryan's study shows, these companies may also reap the benefits of having a workforce that is energized and productive.

These findings provide conservationists with solid human health and economic arguments for the importance of protecting natural areas that are accessible to people, for both passive viewing and active interaction.  

--Karren Bassler is a contributing writer based in Madison Wisconsin and a consultant with Superior Nonprofits, LLC.

Ryan, R., Weinstein, N., Bernstein, J., Brown, K., Mistretta, L., & Gagné, M. (2010). Vitalizing effects of being outdoors and in nature Journal of Environmental Psychology, 30 (2), 159-168 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2009.10.009