Humans can be deeply impacted by nature, both physically and mentally. Here are a few tidbits that might inspire you!
A 15 minute walk in a green space, park or the woods can decrease your stress hormone (cortisol) by almost 1.06% per minute.
Walking barefoot on sand, grass, or dirt allows you to absorb negative electrons, which can reduce inflammation, improve facial blood flow regulation, and could serve as a natural strategy against chronic stress, autonomic nerve dysfunction, pain, & poor sleep.
Short spells in nature can reduce tension, anger, fatigue, depression, confusion, and anxiety, as well as improve positive emotion.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia are heartbreaking diseases that affect approximately 5.7 million Americans every year. While doctors can’t pinpoint exactly why, they know that gardening represents the single biggest risk reduction for dementia, reducing risk by up to 47%!
Getting outside, getting dirt under your fingernails, planting seeds, watching as they grow, pulling weeds, and eating the fruits of your labor involves so many important functions…
- Strength, Endurance & Dexterity
- Research & Problem Solving
- Sensory Awareness & Intuition
- Absorbing the Earth’s Negative Electrons
- Nutrients from the Fruits & Vegetables Grown
- Accomplishment & Pride
The ocean contains tens of thousands of negative ions whereas our daily environments contain high amounts of positive ions.
Why does this matter? Each human body had a magnetic field that is made up of both positive and negative ions. Too many positive ions (which can come from computers and cell phones) and people can start feeling tired, lethargic, depressed, stressed, and can begin experiencing insomnia.
A boost in negative ions, which are inhaled, reach our bloodstream and begin a biochemical reaction that brings back the balance of +/- ions in our bodies. Hello vitality, good moods, energy, and restorative sleep! Don’t have an ocean handy? Nature will provide! Moving water may contain more negative ions but high levels can still be found in the great outdoors!
Happy Hormones- “Four different brain chemicals create happy feelings, and you need all of them to feel good.”
- Endorphins are released by physical pain as a natural pain medication
- Serotonin is released when you feel important or accomplished
- Dopamine is released when you get a reward
- Oxytocin is released in bonding moments with people you trust
Dirt Therapy 