Forest helps against stress: 20 minutes for more quality of life!
Forest helps against stress: 20 minutes for more quality of life!
Penzing, Österreich - A new study by the Medical University of Vienna has found that a 20-minute stay in the forest can already contribute significantly to reduce stress. The results were published in the “Forests” journal and demonstrate the positive effects of natural environments on mental health.
The examination was aimed at 66 healthy adults, which were divided into two groups. One group spent time in the Wienerwald, while the other lingered in an urban environment without greening. Before and after the stay, saliva samples were carried out to determine the stress marker Cortisol and psychological surveys. The results showed that the cortisol level in the forest group dropped significantly from 4 to 2 ng/ml. In addition, the positive atmosphere in the forest group remained stable, while in the city group by around 25 percent.
health effects of stress
chronic stress can have serious effects on physical and mental health, including a weakened immune system as well as an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and psychological ailments such as depression and anxiety disorders. Daniela Haluza, the study director, emphasizes that stays in forest areas can significantly improve the mood. These findings could provide valuable impulses for healthcare and urban development, especially with regard to the integration of natural -based recreational areas in urban environments.
The participants of the study, recruited via personal invitations, posters and social media, were between the ages of 19 and 58 and had stable physical and mental health. In order not to influence the results, the stay in the forest groups was passively designed. There were no sporting activities, conversations or cell phone use, but was saturated and attentive observation was practiced. In order to rule out environmental factors, the transport was carried out to the locations with darkened vehicles.
further research impulses
The study shows the potential of nature -related environments for mental health and the reduction of stress. Further research is already planned to examine the effects of longer stays, different forest types and seasonal changes in mental well -being. Multi -sensory nature experiences, such as forest fragrances and birds, should also be analyzed more.
In view of the results, low -threshold access to nature is not only suitable as an instrument of health promotion, but also as a product of social justice. The integration of therapeutically accompanied forest stays for prevention could therefore be significant progress for the urban living environment in Austria. The study clearly shows that a short stay in the forest can do miracles for body and mind.For more information about the study, please read the reports on My district and Kurier .
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| Ort | Penzing, Österreich |
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