However, a considerable body of constantly growing research underlines just how profoundly nature influences our mental health. From reducing stress to improving mood and cognitive performance, being outside can be a potent panacea for the pressures of modern life.

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In the article, we will provide some practical suggestions for fitting more outdoor time into your schedule, especially if you are exploring, for instance, copy-typing remote roles or other work-from-home opportunities.  Besides, we have collaborated with experts from job aggregator Jooble to review the benefits of connecting with nature despite the heavy working hours. 

The Science Behind Nature and Mental Health

• Stress Reduction

Moreover, nature has a profound impact on our mood. Green spaces are linked to reduced levels of depression and anxiety. For instance, a study at the University of Queensland revealed that just 30 minutes in nature can significantly boost mental well-being. The sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors activate our senses, bringing a sense of joy and contentment.

• Better Mood and Well-being

Furthermore, nature exerts a certain degree of control over a person's mood. In fact, green spaces are associated with lowered levels of depression and anxiety. For instance, researchers at the University of Queensland conducted a study which maintained that just 30 minutes spent in nature leads to substantial state gains in mental well-being. The sights, sounds, and smells of being outside activate our senses, bringing joy and happiness.

• Enhanced Cognitive Function

Nature not only soothes the brain but also sharpens it. Research has demonstrated that outdoor exposure enhances cognitive functioning in attention, memory, and problem-solving. For example, a study published in Psychological Science sent participants on either a nature or urban walk, followed by a series of cognitive tasks; the nature walkers performed significantly better on these tasks compared to those who walked in an urban environment. Because contact with natural surroundings rejuvenates our minds, many consider it a form of ”nature therapy”.

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Why It Works

• The Biophilia Hypothesis

The biophilia hypothesis states that humans have a hard-wired connection to nature, and, to some extent, this hard-wiring influences their psychological well-being. This might be related to evolutionary history, where perception of natural settings meant survival or death. The same instinct is still valid today, in the form of longing for greenery and natural beauty, which comforts and calms us during stressful times.

• Attention Restoration Theory

According to Attention Restoration Therapy (ART), natural environments afford a restoration opportunity for depleted cognitive resources. In contrast, urban environments require the frequent and fatiguing use of directed attention - that is, attending to the tasks at hand while filtering out all distractions. On the other hand, nature allows our minds to wander and replenish themselves. 

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Practical Ways to Connect with Nature 

These suggestions are designed to be easily incorporated into your daily routine, making it more manageable to include outdoor activities in your life.

• Walk or Bike - take a route that has great views during your daily commute to work, or just walk during your lunch breaks.
• Gardening - experience nature from the comfort of your own home, by taking care of flowers and plants around your house or starting a small landscaping project.
• Picnics - organise picnics with friends or family at local parks, where you will have delicious food amidst nature's beauty.
• Hiking - undergoing energising park hikes is an excellent exercise both for the mind and body.
• Mindfulness in nature - practising mindfulness while being outdoors can further add to nature's beneficial effects on an individual's mental health. Focus on your surroundings - the colours of leaves, the sound of rustling branches, or the scent of flowers. Allow yourself to be fully present in the moment.
• Meditation - find a quiet place outdoors where you can meditate or practice deep breathing surrounded by nature.
• Journaling - take a notebook and pen with you, whenever you go outside. Reflecting on the time spent in nature may strengthen your connection with it and enhance your emotional health.
• Digital Detox - leave all technology behind, to discover all the benefits of nature. Or at least reduce your screen time, so that you can be more engaged. Take a digital break and replace that time with afternoon hikes or a camping excursion for rejuvenation of the mind and heart.

Conclusion: Go Outside More!

Evidence shows that time spent in nature significantly improves mental health and overall well-being by improving mood, reducing stress, and even enhancing cognition. Thus, nature is an important commodity for maintaining good mental health in these crazy times that we live in. Remember, even though your life has challenges, the benefits of stepping outdoors are found in simplicity and profundity. Anything from a short walk around your neighbourhood park to an adventurous hike into the mountains - make it a priority to connect more and more with nature. Your mind and body will surely thank you.