Does Going Outside Help Depression: Benefits of Nature and Natural Light on Mental Health

Introduction:

Depression is a widespread mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Recent studies and evidence from the Corona pandemic shut-downs have demonstrated that spending time outside, especially in natural settings, can significantly alleviate symptoms of depression.

In this article, we will explore the ways in which spending time outside can provide mental health benefits, focusing on the importance of natural light and the surrounding environment.

The Power of Natural Settings

Exposure to natural settings, such as parks and other green spaces, can have a profoundly soothing effect on individuals with depression.

Look at the sky, engage in a walk, and immerse your senses in the sounds of nature. These activities can help to distract the mind and alter one's mood in ways that benefit overall well-being.

Importance of Distraction and Mood Alteration

Spending significant time outside, particularly in natural environments, can offer much-needed distraction from daily stresses and promote a better overall mood. However, it is also essential to recognize that achieving a state of inner peace requires various lifestyle changes, such as meditation and spiritual practices.

A balanced approach that includes a healthy routine, environmental changes, and personal development is key to enhancing mental health.

The Impact of Natural Light on Circadian Rhythms

Natural light, especially the low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset, can significantly impact one's circadian rhythms, which are internal biological processes that regulate sleep cycles, hormone release, and other essential functions.

Exposure to natural light during these times resets the suprachiasmatic nucleus, the primary timekeeping structure in the brain's hypothalamus, which controls the sleep-wake cycles. This process helps to regulate the release of hormones like cortisone and melatonin, promoting better sleep and overall mental health.

Optimal Benefits of Natural Light

Direct exposure to natural light is crucial for obtaining these benefits. The light that enters the eyes during the daylight hours influences the release of both cortisone and melatonin. Indoor light sources, including windows or through sunglasses, do not provide the same benefits. However, individuals with specific medical conditions may need to follow their physician's advice regarding sunlight exposure.

The Synergy of Natural Light and Physical Activity

For optimal mental health benefits, it is important to engage in physical activities such as walking or running while outside. Movement, particularly forward motion, is necessary to create optic flow, which can have a calming effect on the neurological circuits responsible for stress.

Optic flow involves the movement of objects past the viewer as they walk, which helps to stabilize internal mental processes and provides a sense of calm and stability.

Conclusion:

Spending time outside, especially during natural light conditions, can provide significant mental health benefits for individuals with depression. The combination of exposure to natural light and physical activity in a natural setting can help to regulate sleep cycles, alleviate stress, and improve overall well-being.

Encouraging and practicing these beneficial habits can play a crucial role in managing and reducing the symptoms of depression.