If you’ve spoken to a Gen Z, or been on social media in the last 12 months, you might have heard or seen someone say, "go touch grass." And if you’re wondering what that means, or what benefits of ‘touching grass’ has, we got you!
Whether you're glued to your phone, lost in the latest Netflix series, or deep in a work-from-home marathon, we all need a reminder to take a breather. But why is it so important? We’ve shortlisted 10 surprising facts about the benefits of nature that will make you want to step outside and embrace the great outdoors a little more often.
What does ‘go touch grass’ mean?
This popular phrase, often used in online conversations, is slang for encouraging someone to take a break from social media and technology and reconnect with the real world—specifically, by getting outside and enjoying nature. Based on the benefits of grounding, it is a reminder to go outside and reset your body and mind organically, rather than being stuck mindlessly scrolling indoors. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that sometimes, the best thing we can do for our wellbeing is to unplug, step outside, and, quite literally, touch some grass.
10 facts about the benefits of nature
Most companies try to sell you benefits in a bottle, when in reality you can heaps of the same benefits from just stepping outdoors.
- Forest bathing (where you spend time immersed in woodland) for 1-3 days reduces cortisol and adrenaline levels for seven days post-exposure.
- People who live near green spaces are proven to be more physically active and live longer.
- Exercise outdoors and in nature has a stronger cognitive boost than the same level of exercise indoors.
- Spending time in nature can reduce cortisol levels by up to 21%.
- Looking at water, known as the blue prescription, can reduce blood pressure, lower stress levels and boost happiness.
- Grounding, which is walking barefoot on natural ground, has been proven to reduce inflammation, lower stress levels and boost immune system and heart health.
- Walking in nature boosts creative thinking and original thought and has a more positive impact on mood than walking in an urban setting.
- Spending 120+ minutes a week in nature correlates to higher wellbeing, and even 10-20 minutes is beneficial.
- Spending time in nature is recommended to be prescribed to people to help beat high blood pressure, resilience in children and cancer prevention.
- Exposure to natural environments and sleeping in natural darkness improves sleep quality and reduces anxiety.
So next time you feel overwhelmed, uninspired, or simply in need of a break, remember the phrase "go touch grass." Not only does it invite you to reconnect with the world around you, but it also offers a wealth of benefits for your mind, body, and soul.
