The Grove
Granny Hobbies Are Good for You
Birdwatching, knitting, gardening, baking — the hobbies previous generations saved for retirement are having a moment, and science explains why.
A 2024 study found that birdwatching reduced psychological distress more than a regular nature walk. Knitting activates the parasympathetic nervous system through the same bilateral rhythm as EMDR. Gardening literally grows new neural pathways. Stress baking is biology, not a cliché.
We are all, collectively, reaching for slower and more absorbing things in the middle of a world that will not stop being a lot.
Attention Restoration Theory: Understanding the Relationship between Nature and Mental Health
Attention restoration theory is a concept that suggests that spending time in nature can help us restore our mental resources and improve our well-being. The theory is based on the idea that our brains have two types of attention: voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary attention is what we use when we focus on a task that requires concentration, while involuntary attention is what we use when we react to stimuli in our environment.
According to attention restoration theory, spending time in nature allows our involuntary attention to rest, which in turn helps to restore our voluntary attention. This restoration effect can lead to increased productivity, creativity, and attention capacity.
In this blog post, we will explore the concept of attention restoration theory in more detail, including how it works, the benefits of spending time in nature, and how we can use this theory to improve our mental health. Whether you're a nature lover or someone who's simply interested in exploring new ways to boost your well-being, this post is for you. So let's dive in and learn more about attention restoration theory!
