Science Quickly Going Outside Can Change Our Hormones and Improve Microbiome Diversity
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Jan 8, 2025 Kathy Willis, a biodiversity professor at the University of Oxford and author of "Good Nature," shares her insights on nature's profound impact on human health. She highlights how even small interactions with plants can enhance well-being and diversify our microbiomes. From the benefits of urban parks to the power of indoor plants, Kathy discusses practical ways to incorporate nature into daily life. She also emphasizes the need for future research on nature-based therapies in modern medicine, advocating for a more nature-centric approach to urban planning and healthcare.
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Tree View Recovery
- Kathy Willis became interested in nature's impact on health after reading a 1984 study.
- It showed patients with tree views recovered faster from surgery than those without.
Nature's Impact on Well-being
- Interacting with nature triggers changes in our nervous and hormone systems, promoting calmness.
- Inhaling plant molecules affects biochemical pathways, similar to prescription drugs.
Microbiome Diversity
- Our gut microbiome is largely influenced by our environment, not just diet.
- Biodiverse environments, rich in plants, contribute to a healthier, more diverse gut microbiome.
