The Nature Effect

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“Green exercise” taps into the ancient human desire to connect with nature.

You can read about the many positive effects that being with horses has on humans on our Perfect Partners page.

Nature has the power to fill us with wonder and awe, give us a sense of belonging, and make us more alert. Combined with physical activity, it has tremendous positive effects on our mental health. For example, within just five minutes of “green exercise," as it’s sometimes called, people report major positive changes in their mood and outlook.

If you’re wondering why, just remember that the human brain evolved over a long period of time, most of which humans spent outdoors running, walking, and foraging for food.

Indeed, brain scans show that our default brain state is different outdoors than it is indoors. Indoors, where we now spend an average 93 percent of our time,  we’re more likely to engage in rumination, self-criticism, or worry.

But when we’re in nature, our default brain state more closely resembles the calm, disengaged state achieved by experienced meditators. We experience less anxiety, are more aware of our surroundings, and slip into a state researchers call soft fascination.

People who feel connected to nature tend to experience greater life satisfaction, purpose, and happiness. They are also less likely to be depressed and anxious.

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All this to say, you'll feel better once you arrive at the farm. You'll feel even better once you've been outside, walk the pastures with the horses, sit in the grass, or lay in the hammock and look up at the trees swaying in the breeze.

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