The Surprising Science-Backed Reason Being in Nature Makes You Feel Good

Ashley Abramson · June 5, 2026

Featuring Gregory Bratman, PhD, the Center’s co-director

Spending time in or near nature has many potential benefits. A 2021 review found that being in nature (especially while engaging in physical activity) is linked to improved cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure and reduced risk factors for chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes.

A growing body of research suggests nature is associated with reduced feelings of stress, anxiety and sadness, plus an increased sense of purpose and overall well-being, according to Gregory Bratman, an associate professor of environmental and forest sciences at the University of Washington. (But exactly why is “still an open question,” Bratman said.)

“A lot of progress has been made recently in potential mechanisms that help explain those outcomes,” Bratman said.

In the new study, the researchers looked at survey data from 50,363 participants in 58 countries around the world and found nature contact to be associated with greater body appreciation via two potential pathways: increases in self-compassion and perceived restoration.