Reconnecting with Nature: The Importance of Outdoor Spaces in Urban Living
October 10th is World Mental Health day, and as the day approaches, it’s important to recognise the positive impact that spending time in nature has on our mental well-being.
In cities, where urban environments can sometimes feel overwhelming, incorporating natural spaces into daily life can be a powerful tool for improving mental health. Even small green areas—like gardens, parks, or backyard treehouses—can offer much-needed respite, helping people find peace amidst the urban hustle.
Nature and Mental Health
The link between nature and mental health is well-documented, with numerous studies showing that exposure to natural environments can reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Green spaces also help to encourage physical activity, which boosts mood and contributes to combating mental health issues.
It’s no surprise that time spent outdoors encourages mindfulness and brings a sense of calm. In her book, The Nature Fix, a venture looking into the positive impacts of nature on mankind, Florence Williams points out that even brief exposure to natural environments can make us "less aggressive, more creative, more civic-minded, and healthier overall."
Williams also references research from Finland, which suggests that spending just five hours a month in nature is enough to see a measurable improvement in baseline mental health. Another study from Japan highlights the benefits of forest bathing—immersing oneself in a forest atmosphere—which lowers cortisol levels (a key marker of stress) compared to urban environments. Nature acts as a natural antidote to the pressures of modern life.
The Psychology Behind Nature's Healing Power
So why does nature have such a profound impact on our mental health? It comes down to the concept of biophilia—the theory that humans are innately connected to nature. We evolved in natural environments, and even in today’s urbanised world, our brains are still wired to thrive in green spaces. Natural settings stimulate our senses in ways that artificial environments cannot. For example, the sounds of birds, the scent of trees, and the feeling of soil underfoot all create a multi-sensory experience that naturally and effortlessly calms our nervous systems.
Being in nature, whether it’s a forest or your backyard treehouse, also fosters creativity by allowing the mind to wander, free from the constraints of technology and city noise. Studies have shown that serotonin and dopamine levels—neurotransmitters linked to happiness and well-being—are increased when we spend time in green spaces. This natural boost in mood makes us feel more relaxed and better equipped to handle life’s challenges.
How Treehouses Contribute to Mental Health
Treehouses, in particular, offer a unique way to experience nature. Elevated above the ground, they allow both children and adults to feel like they’re escaping into a peaceful, natural world. Treehouses foster a sense of independence, which is especially important for children as they grow. They provide a private sanctuary where creativity can flourish, and the imagination can run wild. Adults, too, can benefit from the sense of freedom and nostalgia that treehouses evoke.
Treehouses also offer a balance between technology and the outdoors. While today’s children may spend much of their time on devices, a treehouse can serve as an inviting space that encourages them to step outside. Even if they’re still on their phones or tablets, the fresh air and natural surroundings create a healthier alternative to staying indoors. Building a treehouse gives parents a way to merge the digital with the natural, ensuring that their kids get more outdoor time without feeling disconnected from their favourite activities. For ideas on how to design a treehouse that your kids will love, check out our blog post on 16 treehouse design ideas that your kids will never stop thanking you for.
Nature as a Tool for Emotional Resilience
Spending time in nature doesn't just boost mood in the moment; it also helps build emotional resilience, especially for children. Nature has been found to reduce rumination, or rather the tendency to dwell on negative thoughts, which can be a contributing factor in mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Engaging with natural surroundings encourages a shift in perspective, allowing us to feel more connected to something larger than ourselves. This connection can help to foster feelings of gratitude and mindfulness, two mental states closely linked to emotional well-being.
For city dwellers, having access to green spaces like treehouses is more than just a luxury—it’s a necessity for mental health. Whether it's taking a stroll through a local park, cultivating a rooftop garden, or escaping to a treehouse in your backyard, these natural retreats offer valuable opportunities to unplug, unwind, and reset.
Keen to learn more or talk about building your very own treehouse? Get in touch for a free consultation.