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How nature nurtures: Amygdala activity decreases as the result of a one-hour walk in nature

Psychology

How nature nurtures: Amygdala activity decreases as the result of a one-hour walk in nature

S. Sudimac, V. Sale, et al.

Discover how a simple walk in nature can significantly reduce stress-related brain activation! This intriguing study by Sonja Sudimac, Vera Sale, and Simone Kühn reveals the potential mental health benefits of spending time in natural environments over urban settings. Dive into the findings that underscore nature's powerful effects on our mental well-being.

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Playback language: English
Abstract
This study investigated the causal effects of natural and urban environments on stress-related brain mechanisms. 63 healthy participants underwent fMRI scans before and after a one-hour walk in either a natural (forest) or urban (busy street) environment, performing fearful faces and social stress tasks. Results showed a decrease in amygdala activation after the nature walk, suggesting salutogenic effects of nature on stress-related brain regions and potential preventative measures against mental strain.
Publisher
Molecular Psychiatry
Published On
Sep 05, 2022
Authors
Sonja Sudimac, Vera Sale, Simone Kühn
Tags
stress
brain mechanisms
nature
urban environment
fMRI
amygdala activation
mental strain
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