Simple steps to cut your stress

WALKING in woods can help cut stress levels, reduce blood pressure and help fight cardiovascular disease, say researchers.

In one experiment, scientists from the University of Essex found that even looking at pictures of forests helped to ease strains.Researchers led by Dr Valerie Gladwell carried out experiments on volunteers while measuring their stress levels.

Volunteers who were asked to walk in specified “green environments” at lunch time slept better that night.

    Our research has shown that ‘green environments’ can be an effective stress-buster

   
After eight weeks they recorded lower blood pressure and had lower perceived stress.

Dr Gladwell said: “Our research has shown that ‘green environments’ can be an effective stress-buster. If we can encourage more people to enjoy the great outdoors it may help increase their levels of physical activity and, therefore, could also be a powerful tool to help fight cardiovascular disease.”

[express]