Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Taking Walks in Nature

Taking a walk, wandering through the garden or going on a long hike has some great physical benefits, but it also let's us disconnect from our busy everday lives so we can reconnect with ourselves and the nature around us. If you're spending all day indoors looking at screens, you're missing out on the restorative power of nature.

Walking in nature can have many physical and mental benefits, including:

Reduced stress

Nature can help you to relax and reduce your stress levels. Exposure to nature can lower cortisol levels, a biomarker of stress. Increased stress can lead to hormanal changes, digestive issues, skin conditions, heart problems, weight gain/loss, mental health issues and more.

Better focus and increased productivity

Walking in nature can help you to focus, improve your concentration and boost your creativity. Having even the smallest bit of greenery to look at can aid mental stamina and focus your attention, allowing you to think more clearly.

Improved brain function and mood

Spending time around trees can improve your mood immensely, and physical activity in nature can improve your cognitive control, short and long-term memory, and overall brain function, leaving your feeling happier and thinking more positively.

Boosted immune system and decreased risk of chronic disease

Walking in forests, for example, can boost your immune system which can help your body fight off colds, the flu or other infections. Exposure to nature could decrease death from chronic disease too, according to the University of California.

Walking is a simple and free way to get more active and healthier. Even if all you do is a brisk 10-minute walk around your neighbourhood, you will start to see the benefits. The health benefits of walking just 10 minutes a day can also cut the risk of an early death by 15%.

So get outside! You can find time for a 10-minute walk by leaving the car at home and walking to the shops, getting some fresh air at lunchtime, or meeting friends to go on a walk together.  Even if it's not every single day, at least make the time once a week for a short walk in nature.

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