Story perspectives

Nature Workouts Boost Mental Health, Study Reveals

9/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Research shows that exercising in nature provides greater physical and mental benefits than urban or indoor workouts.
A study in *Psychology of Sport and Exercise* involved 25 men walking for an hour in natural, urban, and indoor settings.
Participants felt more relaxed and joyful after nature walks, experiencing lower cortisol levels and improved heart rate variability (HRV).
Experts highlight outdoor exercise's role in reducing stress, anxiety, and negative mood.
The study advocates for outdoor activities to enhance mental health.

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Story summary

Research shows that exercising in nature provides greater physical and mental benefits than urban or indoor workouts.
A study in *Psychology of Sport and Exercise* involved 25 men walking for an hour in natural, urban, and indoor settings.
Participants felt more relaxed and joyful after nature walks, experiencing lower cortisol levels and improved heart rate variability (HRV).
Experts highlight outdoor exercise's role in reducing stress, anxiety, and negative mood.
The study advocates for outdoor activities to enhance mental health.