Are you feeling stressed? Spend 20 minutes outside. Researchers from the University of Michigan say it can help.
The team asked participants to spend 10 minutes or more outside, at least 3 times a week for 8 weeks. Participants chose what time of day and where, but were instructed to avoid looking at their phones, talking with others, engaging in aerobic exercise, and reading.
Researchers found that sitting or walking outside for just 20 minutes was enough to lower stress levels. And 20-30 minutes led to the greatest stress reduction.
This study demonstrates the mental health benefits of immersing yourself in nature even for a short period of time.
Source:
Frontiers. (2019, April 4). Just 20 minutes of contact with nature will lower stress hormone levels, reveals new study. ScienceDaily. Retrieved April 10, 2019 from www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/04/190404074915.htm
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