What health benefits does viewing nature offer?
Nature provides a great distraction. Because we are genetically programmed to find nature engrossing, we are absorbed by nature scenes and distracted from our pain and discomfort. Nature reduces stress and anxiety. One explanation for this is that nature provides a respite from the constant effort to screen out competing stimuli in our busy lives. Because humans find nature inherently engrossing, we don’t have to make an effort to focus when presented with natural views. This reduces mental fatigue and refreshes the mind. Another idea is that plants offer psychological comfort. As one researcher in this area, Lewis, says “Plants take away some of the anxiety and tension of the immediate now by showing us that there are long, enduring patterns in life.” Their growth is steady and progressive, not erratic. While there are various theories why nature is so helpful, there is no variance on the outcomes. We know that viewing plants, flowers, water, and other nature elements reduces patient
