June 8th 2010.

It’s refreshing. It’s invigorating. And it leaves you feeling truly alive. No, I’m not talking about a cold shower or a fruit smoothie with a mochachino chaser. I’m talking about nature. Because according to a study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, getting outside—or even just thinking about it—can increase your vitality. Hiking, biking or walking in the woods can be revitalizing. But why? Is there something special about the great outdoors that recharges our batteries? Or is it that enjoying nature often involves physical activity and, unless you’re Henry David Thoreau, interacting with others?

Read the full story at:

http://www.scientificamerican.com/podcast/episode/nature-boosts-self-evaluation-of-vi-10-06-08/

By Karen Hopkin