Research shows novelty triggers the release of dopamine in the brain as a reward. It's the break from the usual that stimulates this ancient evolutionary need. I think it's all about slowly reprogramming those hijacked dopamine systems to be positioned towards the outdoors, rather than indoor screen based activities. One thing I love doing is planning trips with a big group of friends that are based around nature. The best kind is a co-strip - everyone loves a little beach holiday.
This week we're discussing the secret and the science behind the healing powers of nature. Our generation has become increasingly detached from the outdoors and our wild roots, with over 90% of our days spent indoors or on a screen, often at the expense of our mental wellbeing, sense of self, psychological and spiritual connection with the land and overall physical health. In this episode we explore ideas around nature deficit disorder, recent longitudinal studies on the impacts of green spaces on our mental health and practices such as forest bathing, forest schools, water therapy and what we can learn from the deep connection that Indigenous groups have with the land. We also discuss how we can easily integrate more time outdoors into our daily routine to radically improve our psychological wellbeing. Listen now.
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