Do you feel calmer after staring at the sea? Does a hike in the woods lift your spirits?
Everyone has heard the trite advice that getting some fresh air will help you feel better, but did you know that studies have produced quantifiable evidence that spending time in nature reduces mental disorders such as depression?
A Stanford-led study showed that people who spend 90 minutes a day walking in nature, as opposed to an urban setting, have lowered activity in an area of the brain that is linked with depression. This finding supports the growing body of research that links nature and mental health.
In today’s urbanized society–where over half the world’s population lives in cities–mental disorders are on the rise. City dwellers have a 40% higher chance of mood disorders and a 20% greater chance of anxiety disorders than those who live in rural areas.
Psychologists have even come up with a name to label the physical, psychological, and cognitive effects of people’s disconnection from nature–nature deficient disorder.
Connect with nature at Retorno
At Retorno, we take the nature and mental health connection seriously and help our participants connect with the healing elements of nature. Retorno offers several holistic, natural therapies including therapeutic horseback riding, therapeutic gardening, canine assisted therapy, animal assisted therapy, bicycle therapy, and more.
Our treatment facilities are located in located in Givat Shemesh, literally translated as “Sun Hill.” Plenty of fresh sunshine, vegetation, and rolling hills create a tranquil and rejuvenating environment. Retorno participants frequently take long horseback rides, get their hands dirty in our garden, and participate in discussions and group sessions outdoors.
To learn more about Retorno–a place where nature can help you heal and recover–contact us today. Give us a call, or just fill out the contact form and click Send.
