Happy Earth Day! How about a nice walk in nature today? It might have some unexpected benefits.
Researchers just did a study in Norway where they looked at over 2,500 people living near a lake. They found that people who spent the most time around the lake reported less loneliness than the people who weren't connecting with nature.
And socializing with other people didn't make that much of a difference. The most important factor was feeling connected to nature itself.
Oddly enough, being alone in nature actually made people feel less alone. Because they were focused on something greater than themselves.
But they do warn there's a balance. Too much isolation can backfire. So, the next time you're feeling a little lonely, a quiet walk out in nature might be better for you than a group hang.