The two hours a week in nature that made a difference

In a large survey, people who spent at least 120 minutes a week in nature more often reported good health and well-being.

The study

The researchers looked at a nationally representative survey of 19,806 people about the time they had spent in nature in the past week. Compared with no time in nature, reports of good health and high well-being became more likely at 120 minutes or more. The link peaked between 200 and 300 minutes. It did not matter whether the time came in one long visit or several shorter ones. Because this was a survey, it shows a link, not cause and effect.

Starting small

Two hours a week can be split up. A few short walks in a park or along a tree-lined street can add up over the week.