I’ve been considering what positive contributions psychology can make to the nature connection and sustainability movement, and wanted to share this interesting study.
In this research, led by the University of Derby (full credits in comments), 61 participants took part in a range of sensory exercises (auditory, touch, visual) within a semi-ancient woodland setting.
The impacts of these activities were assessed using a mixture of self-report questionnaires and devices to measure their physiological responses. Here are some of the findings:
😊 There were significant improvements in positive emotions, reduced mood disturbance, and a reduction in problem rumination
🌳Participants felt more connected to nature and reported an increase in pro-environmental attitudes
💙People felt higher levels of compassion towards self and others
🫀 57% of participants showed an increase in heart rate variability, which suggests greater stress resilience and higher levels of happiness
Research such as this has made me consider the possibility of holding some nature connection mini-retreats within the beautiful Derbyshire countryside where I now live. Watch this space!
It is also a brilliant reminder that when we connect with nature it has a positive impact for us humans, but also increases the possibility of us giving something back. For me, this principle of reciprocity is a vital component of any healthy system, whether that be effective collaboration between teams or the way that we interact with the natural world.
Here are some forest bathing tips, in case you feel like giving it a go! Good time of year to try it!
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