It’s no longer just a walk in the park

Research is confirming what we have all known for a long time. Nature has a profound effect on our mood, wellbeing and resilience. Natural spaces allow us to escape; they afford novel opportunities to smell, hear and feel something different from the places where we live, work and play.

But it’s about creating moments not just minutes. What we do in nature matters more than the amount of time spent. The more meaningful the experience the more profound the benefits!

What benefits can you expect?

• Engaging your senses in nature has well-documented beneficial effects on improving mental restoration, calm and creativity e.g. nature smells and touch stimulate resilience to stress.
• Copying nature activates senses in our body which increases our connection and empathy with nature.
• Being near running water and enjoying sunlight increases feelings of relaxation, clears the mind and boosts immunity and metabolism.
• Looking at nature’s patterns helps us to relax and has the same influence on our emotions as listening to classical music!
• Listening to nature sounds restores attention and reduces muscle tension faster and more effectively than listening to urban sounds.
• Looking at nature’s diversity through ‘soft fascination’ reduces stress and increases feelings of relaxation, interest and awe.
• Standing near trees improves our immunity. When looking up and out on nature we can expect to enjoy a range of additional neurological benefits.
• Expressing gratitude of nature makes us happier and healthier improving our immune system, reducing blood pressure, improving sleep and pain management.

Do you have a suggested location for Go Slow in your area? Let us know by contacting either:

Jacinta Elphick
Bushfire – Disaster Recovery Clinician
Adelong Health and Community Centre
M: 0436 942 100
E: Jacinta.Elphick@health.nsw.gov.au

Jenni Wines
Bushfire – Disaster Recovery Clinician
Adelong Health and Community Centre
M: 0436 947 959
E: Jennifer.Wines@health.nsw.gov.au