Discover the Restorative Power of Nature: Studies Reveal Advantages of Touching Grass
Anecdotally, my Neurodivergent friends and I have theorized that time with nature (not time in nature) has an especially rejuvenating effect for us, and there is a growing body of research to back up this theory. A 2023 study conducted in the United Kingdom titled “Respite and connection: Autistic adults’ reflections upon nature and well-being during the Covid-19 pandemic” observed that “For some autistic adults during the pandemic, nature provided physical distance…enabling them to use nature to experience relief from stress. In addition, some participants felt more psychologically connected to nature, while for others, nature served as a way of connecting with others during a potentially isolating time.”
This fascinating study is a part of a growing body of research focusing on ways that Neurodivergent people, and Autistic people in particular, can exercise our agency to create affirming and restorative experiences. The overwhelming majority of research about Autistic people focuses on our perceived deficits and “struggles” to meet Neurotypical standards. Even positive research, when viewed critically, takes for granted that Neurotypical people desire to diminish the parts of ourselves that characterize our Neurodivergence. As more Neurodivergent people become the authors of our stories, we are advocating for more affirming language and visibility, with research being one of the central outlets.
After some research, I learned that multiple recent studies demonstrate that access to green space (proximity to plant life) significantly improves our well-being. Being near plants has been shown to calm humans during times of stress, and plants can even encourage us to connect with others. Multiple meta-analytic studies have examined the effects of time spent outdoors on executive functioning. These effects have been consistent across different age groups, including preschool children, adolescents, and older adults.
A 2017 experimental study conducted in Japan showed that being near a plant for a short period (in contrast to just seeing an image of the same plant) increases the oxyhemoglobin levels in the prefrontal cortex, the region of the brain that helps regulate mood and stress, hence why we feel better around plants.
While all participants in the study stated that they felt more hopeful, calm, and happy after seeing the image or being near a plant, only the participants in proximity to an actual plant showed increased oxyhemoglobin levels.
For the research-minded, here is a review of scientific evidence detailing the health benefits of green spaces. In short, if you’re looking for a simple way to raise your spirits this gloomy winter, consider spending time with nature.
