It’s always felt good to take a walk on the beach. Now, there might be science to back it up.
As noted in the Washington Post, a study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that walking in nature can decrease negative thoughts. Researchers had participants either walk in nature or walk alongside a busy road. Those who walked in nature reported less rumination, the pattern of thinking linked to depression. Brain scans of the nature walkers backed up those results, showing less activity in the parts of the brain associated with rumination.
This follows other research that’s supported the mental health benefits of going outside. Just make sure you’re protecting yourself with proper clothing and sunscreen.
If you’re looking for some good places to get one with nature, check out the Florida Hikes guides to Naples and Fort Myers.
