Watching the trees can reduce problematic cravings

According to one study, having a view of the greenery or having access to a garden or park is linked to a lower frequency and an intensity of cravings.

If you have heard of "swimming in the forest", you know that scientific evidence confirms the healing power of spending time in nature. Researchers have now discovered that simply being able to observe nature can have a healthy effect. this time, a decrease in cravings for alcohol, cigarettes and harmful foods.

The study, led by the University of Plymouth, is the first to show that even a pbadive exposure – like looking out the window at a green space – is linked to a weaker and less common craving.

"It has been known for some time that being outdoors in nature is related to the well-being of a person," said lead researcher Leanne Martin. "But having a similar badociation with the urge to simply see green space adds a new dimension to previous research, this is the first study to explore this idea, and it could have a range of implications for public health and for health, environmental protection programs in the future ".

The researchers examined a number of variables exploring "relationships between various aspects of nature's exposure, cravings and negative affect," notes the University. .

"Among other things, he measured the proportion of green space in the residential area of ​​an individual, the presence of green views from their home, their access to a garden or a subdivision as well as their frequency use of public green spaces. "

The team discovered that having access to a garden – or a residential view of which more than 25% was a green space – was badociated with a lower strength and frequency of envy. Physical activity was taken into account so that the positive effect is not affected by the level of activity.

"Craving contributes to a variety of health-damaging behaviors, such as smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol and poor eating habits," said Dr. Sabine Pahl. "These can in turn contribute to some of the most serious global health problems of our time, including cancer, obesity, and diabetes." Demonstrate that insufficient need is linked to increased exposure to green spaces is a promising first step, how green spaces can be used to help people cope with problematic cravings, thus enabling them to better manage quit attempts in the future. "

The researchers also pointed out that this could serve as additional inspiration for protecting and investing more in urban green spaces.

See more here: Natural Environments and Envy: The Mediating Role of Negative Affect.