Out & About Spring 2018

Bringing nature indoors Spring has sprung, the birds are singing, the daffodils are blossoming and those affected with SAD (season- al affected disorder) heave a sigh of relief as the daylight hours get longer. SAD is a serious condition which manifests itself in a number of ways, from mood swings and tiredness to insomnia and increased levels of stress. MATT AMIN says interior-designed fish tanks have been scientifically proven to lighten your mood

T he NHS estimates that SAD affects around one in 15 people in the UK between September and April. For some, the symptoms can be so severe that they cannot work or function without continuous treatment. Others may experience a milder version, more commonly known as ‘winter blues’. The value of nature W ith the vast range of therapeutic tools and techniques now easily accessible, mental health practitioners often overlook one natural key resource that has many emotional benefits, is generally accessible to most people and is completely free – the great outdoors. In a recent study, researchers from the University of Essex found that taking a walk in an area surrounded by nature reduced depression levels in 71 per cent of participants. The study also showed that being immersed in the outdoors improves mental and physical health, boosts self-esteem and helps people with mental health problems return to work. Others have echoed these findings – showing that reconnecting with nature can play a vital role in helping to lift depression, improve energy and boost overall wellbeing and mental health. In his book, The Nature Principle, American author Richard Louv also adds that people living in high- tech, built-up societies often suffer from what he calls “nature deficit disorder”, whereby the lack of natural

surroundings has a detrimental effect on their health and wellbeing. The benefits do not only manifest themselves when you are fully immersed in an area of woodland or a spacious park, for instance, the same has also been said for looking out of the window at natural scenery and even looking at photos of natural environments. Bring nature indoors with aquatic life A s good as nature can be for your state of mind, the winter blues occur during periods of bad weather, putting people off venturing out into the cold. Bringing nature indoors is therefore a great alternative for those who love nature, but are unenthused by the cold, wintery weather. One solution would be to invest in fish tanks for around the home or place of work. Spending time looking at fish has proven to be calming, relaxing and an ideal way to destress. A study into the calming effects of underwater settings on human wellbeing found that watching the fish caused participants to experience reductions in both blood pressure and heart rate, improved their mood and had a positive impact on their mental wellbeing. This could therefore encourage those who experience lows throughout winter to bring the ‘outside world’ closer into their homes and daily lives. What’s more, with fish tanks requiring minimal effort, they are perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without the hassle of cleaning and maintenance.

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