Observing nature reduces pain sensations

Scientific evidence has long shown that being outdoors improves well-being, but the mechanisms of this phenomenon have remained a mystery. A new study has confirmed that it’s not just about the expectation of benefits or psychological effects. Analysis of brain activity revealed that viewing nature changes the processing of pain signals – the brain perceives them weaker.

Although nature’s pain-relieving effect was half that of traditional medications, scientists believe it is significant. People with chronic pain should not refuse prescribed medications, but adding nature scenes to therapy can enhance the effect and improve overall condition.

Interestingly, pain relief came not only from actually being in nature, but also from watching the video. This opens the door for the use of virtual reality and digital technology in medicine. People who are in hospitals or unable to go outdoors often can benefit from nature simply by watching it through a screen.

As early as 40 years ago, American researcher Roger Ulrich noticed that patients with a view of a park recovered faster and were less likely to take painkillers. However, the reasons for this phenomenon remained unclear. Now science has provided an explanation: the fact is that nature directly affects the brain by reducing the perception of pain.

The new discovery not only confirms the benefits of natural spaces, but also emphasizes the importance of their preservation. Protecting ecosystems becomes not only a matter of ecology, but also a way of caring for the health of millions of people.