Nature is a wonder. From the expansive blue of the ocean to the lush green of an untouched forest, nature has the power to renew and refresh us like no other environment can.

Whether you are hiking in the mountains or admiring a winter wonderland from your living room window, time spent outside can improve both your physical and mental health for the better.

The many benefits of nature can be experienced on any and all of our AdZENtures!

Nature can boost your mood

Nature is an invaluable resource when it comes to happiness, offering up a whole host of health benefits that are associated with improved moods and feelings of well-being. If you need an instant pick me up, then take yourself outside for some fresh air. Just 20 minutes in nature can have the same effect of up to two hours at the gym.

Boosts Your Memory

Getting outside is a great way to boost your memory and overall cognitive performance, in addition to being an effective treatment for dementia and other age-related neurodegenerative diseases. A study carried out by researchers from the University of Michigan found that spending time in nature can even help improve your ability to pay attention and concentrate.

Strengthens Immune System

Getting outside is an effective way of boosting your immune system, helping you fight off colds and other illnesses that might be hanging around at this time of year. Spending just 20 minutes in nature has been shown to increase levels of antibodies by up to 50%.

Nature Helps Reduce Stress

We all know that time spent outside can help to improve your mood, but another one of the benefits of nature is that it has a direct effect on the brain, reducing levels of stress hormones and producing a calming effect on both body and mind. Research shows that even just looking at photos of nature is enough to lower cortisol levels and stress hormone activity.

When we’re stressed, our minds are constantly occupied with worry and negative thoughts. This can lead to a negative outlook on life and can be very damaging to our mental health. But when we take a break from the city, the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and spend time in nature, our minds have a chance to relax and de-stress.

Encourages Mindfulness

One of the main benefits of nature is so good for our mental health is because it encourages mindfulness. When we’re focused on the present moment, we’re less likely to worry about things that are happening in the past or the future. This can lead to a more positive and less stressful outlook on life. Going outside allows us to take a step back and appreciate the present moment, which is the only one guaranteed to us.

Long Story Short

Nature provides nourishment for the mind, body, and soul which can help to improve your overall well-being. In today’s world, we need respite from our hectic, technological lives. Regularly taking a break to connect with nature can help you reduce stress levels and improve your overall health. If you live in an urban area or work primarily indoors, make it a point to connect to nature in some way every day whether that’s by taking a walk, flipping through a book or simply taking some time to look out the window.

Looking for a way to reap some of the benefits of nature? AdZENtures all over the world always include one aspect of nature immersion, whether it’s a mountaintop yoga session in Slovenia, a sailing lesson on Lake Annecy in France or Hiking and Breakfast Tacos in Austin, TX. We’ve come up with the best recipe for an amazing and mindful experience which includes nature immersion along with outdoor adventures and mindful experiences. If you’re interested in joining us for an AdZENture around the world, check out our experiences and retreats!