Thought provoking book which outlines benefits of being outdoors. Cites relevant literature & numerous studies which importantly these tend to adjust for deprivation and exercise. Taking time outside is extremely good for you. Information about studies from Finland (is it a factor that they spend regular time most months at lakes), Scotland (lots of green space, schemes to rehabilitate offenders), Singapore (city design incorporates mandatory green space) and lots about Japan forest medicine, a speciality in itself (go outdoors breathe & enjoy). Japan now has a booming business with areas designated for healing. Interesting studies about the benefits of cypress oil on natural killer cells, blood pressure and pulse.
Suggests you should top up on your time outdoor aiming for a minimum of 5 hours per month. If you are going through a hard time you may well benefit from more outdoor time, ideally a weekend a month. In addition the nature you spend time in should ideally be not predictable. Interestingly looks at impact of artificial nature (i.e. virtual reality headsets) and the ability for a view of nature to help you recover when in hospital. This book certainly encourages me to go outdoors more, and recommend this to others to do the same!
