These findings suggest that birding, or engaging with nature in a specific way, may be a unique way to enhance mental well-being. As Psychology Today notes, “looking for birds” may be a simple yet effective way to reduce stress, improve focus, and even experience a sense of awe. So, what can you do this week to improve your mental health? Perhaps take a walk and try birding! Source:
Peterson, M. N., Larson… L. R., Hipp, A., Beall, J. M., Lerose, C., Desrochers, H., … Martin, K. L. (2024). Birdwatching linked to increased psychological well-being on college campuses: A pilot-scale experimental study, “Journal of Environmental Psychology,” “96,” https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2024.102306. As reported in Psychology Today… this study adds to the growing ⁙⁙⁙ of research highlighting the connections between nature and human health.
A 2021 paper published in Environment International further explores the concept of biodiversity and its impact on human well-being.
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In The News:
Birdwatching may boost student well-being and lower stress – Futurity
“Birdwatching is among the most ubiquitous ways that human beings interact with wildlife globally, and college campuses provide a pocket where there’s access to that activity even in more urban settings,” says Nils Peterson. (Credit: Getty Images )
People who engage in nature-based experiences report better well-being and lower psychological distress than those who do not, a new study finds.
Birdwatching in particular yielded promising results, with higher gains in subjective well-being and more reduction in distress than more generic nature exposure, such as walks.
⁘Especially when you think about students and grad students, it seems like those are groups that are struggling in terms of access to nature and getting those benefits.
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