The Incredible Benefits Of Nature For Your Well-being

I remember attending summer camp as a teen and the invigoration of the outdoors. Trees, streams, fresh air, birds, wildflowers, horses, night skies, campfires- ah God’s creation. Such a beautiful gift.

But did you know there is more to outdoor activities than fun? The benefits of nature are incredible to our overall well-being.

The health benefits of nature

Nature is like medicine.

“Research suggests that contact with nature can be beneficial … leading to improvements in mood, cognition, and health.” (1)

In what ways are you ailing?

While our need for medical doctors is obvious, exploring the outdoors is a great way to augment whatever treatment you are going through. It is also an inexpensive resource.

Of course, check with your physician before embarking on exposure to the outdoors and God’s magnificent creatures, especially if your immune system is compromised.

The physical benefits of nature

Nature has many positive effects on our bodies. First, it helps produce a protective element for our cardiovascular systems (2). Other benefits include

• stress reduction
• lowered cortisol
• lowered pulse
• lowered blood pressure

Just the smell of wood and the sound of a babbling brook brings about the same effects. (3)

Spending time in nature increases physical activity, which helps reduce obesity and cardiovascular disease. (4)

For those experiencing chronic pain, another benefit is pain reduction. Nature is a therapeutic distraction, and increases circulation. (5)

The emotional benefits of nature

“As little as five minutes in a natural setting, whether walking in a park or gardening in the backyard, improves mood, self-esteem, and motivation.” (6)

Nature has a calming effect on us. Even having a plant in a room helps decrease stress and anxiety (5) That is why so many hospitals, offices, and schools include plants in their decor.

The spiritual benefits of nature

“God’s creation can speak to us if we take the time to look and listen.” (7)

Nature is God’s handiwork, inspiring awe (8) The “sense of being in the presence of something greater than ourselves … fills us with wonder.” (9)

That is what happens when you appreciate the intricacies of nature that come from a God who loves us. Science is just now catching up with what the Bible has been telling us all along. (Job 12:7-10, Romans 1:20, Psalm 19:1)

Nature can give us joy in the present and hope for the future.

Finding Hope in nature

As we see and appreciate nature’s great detail, we realize that God is a God of detail. He fully understands our plight here on earth. He orchestrates details that make the negatives of life work out for good (Romans 8:28).

We can trust God with our future because we see that He has been faithful to provide for the many creatures that live here. He will also provide for us. (Matthew 6:26-34).

Finding Joy in nature

God not only provides for our future, but He also provides for us now. He gives us Joy which is akin to happiness.

Our senses are dazzled at times by the colors, fragrances, sounds, smells, and tastes of God’s creation.

Equally delightful are nature’s young: baby chickens, kitties, puppies, lambs, colts, and calves, to name a few.

And did I mention human babies? As they all play and explore their worlds, it brings enjoyment to the human psyche.

How to get the benefits of nature if homebound

Those who work full-time inside a building or those who have physical limitations may find it hard to get out in God’s creation.

If that is your case, try bringing nature inside. Fish tanks, house plants, and documentaries are a few things that can help you out.

“Several studies have found that a mere glimpse of nature from a window or even photographs of nature can improve people’s overall mood, mental health, and life satisfaction.” (10)

When I am stuck inside and want a quick “breath of fresh air”, I go to my Pinterest board to feast my eyes on God’s exquisite designs. You can too.

I pray that you will regularly enjoy the benefits of nature. May you be in awe and wonder of our amazing Creator.

Chris Tomlin has captured these feelings in his song, Indescribable. Take a listen and enjoy some of the benefits of nature right now.

You might also like to read, “33 Ways To Enjoy God’s Creation.“

References:

1. National Library Of Medicine
2. Psych Central
3. Web MD
4. National Library Of Medicine
5. University Of Minnesota
6. Web MD
7. (Dr. David Jeremiah, Turning Point Magazine, September 2020, p. 10)
8. Greater Good Science Center
9. National Library Of Medicine
10. Good Therapy
11. https://www.outsideonline.com/2393660/science-newest-miracle-drug-free