Chasing Life Go Outside, Doctor's Orders
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Apr 18, 2025 Dr. Melissa Lem, a family physician and president of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, shares her groundbreaking approach of prescribing nature to enhance health. Britt Wray, a Stanford researcher and author, discusses the mental health impacts of climate change, particularly climate anxiety in younger generations. Both guests highlight the therapeutic benefits of outdoor experiences and offer insights into fostering resilience amidst environmental challenges. They emphasize the importance of connecting with nature for overall well-being.
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Nature's Proven Health Benefits
- Spending time outside benefits a wide variety of health conditions from diabetes to mental health.
- Nature calms the brain, reduces stress, and is deeply wired into human biology through evolution.
Brain Responses to Nature vs. Urban Scenes
- Urban scenes increase brain activity linked to anxiety and impulsivity.
- Viewing nature increases activity in brain areas linked to empathy, calm, and optimism.
Sanjay Gupta's Forest Bathing Experience
- Sanjay Gupta experienced forest bathing in Japan, which slowed his heartbeat and lowered stress.
- His vitals, including cortisol and blood pressure, dropped significantly after the nature immersion.
