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Science Quickly
Going Outside Can Change Our Hormones and Improve Microbiome Diversity
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.
18:11
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Quick takeaways
- Interacting with nature, even through simple indoor plants or scents, significantly lowers stress hormones and enhances overall well-being.
- Living in biodiverse environments improves gut health by exposing individuals to beneficial microorganisms that reduce inflammation and support microbiome diversity.
Deep dives
Impact of Nature on Human Health
Interacting with nature positively affects both psychological and physiological health. Research highlights that simply looking at vegetation can enhance recovery rates in clinical settings, as demonstrated by a study showing faster recovery for patients with hospital views of trees compared to brick walls. This interaction triggers beneficial changes in the nervous system, such as lowered heart rates and decreased levels of stress hormones like adrenaline. The positive influence of plants extends to various senses, suggesting that all forms of engagement with nature can yield significant health benefits.
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