Here's a quick, three-minute tip where we break down a mental health or personal development topic in 180 seconds to help you shift or reframe your perspective.

Today's topic explores some of the different ways that spending time in nature can help expand creativity and problem-solving abilities.

For years there's been more and more research suggesting that spending as little as 10 to 15 minutes outside can have positive effects on overall health. That also includes positive effects on how we think, including on our ability to think creatively and to problem solve. 

Some of the reasons for this are that being immersed in nature:

• can provide a break from our normal routines, almost like taking a vacation, and that helps the mind to relax and open; 
  
  
• activates a different, softer type of attention and focus than what we're normally using when navigating modern life; and
  
  
• can create a sense of awe, which in turn expands the mind and promotes curiosity, imagination and flexible thinking. 
  

So if you ever feel stuck for inspiration or can't quite figure out what to do about a situation, you can always try spending some time outdoors.

Research cited: "The great outdoors? Exploring the mental heatlh benefits of natural environments." Front. Psychiatry

"Physiological Benefits of Viewing Nature: A Systemic Review of Indoor Experiments." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

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*Disclaimer: The information contained in this episode is for the sole purpose of being informative and is not considered complete. It should not replace consultation with a qualified professional.