need a happy place

5 reasons why you need a ‘happy place’

When down or out, you need a ‘happy place’ to turn to. It’s in times like these that most people seek comfort in a corner away from prying eyes. This space could be a beach, terrace, park, garden or just any place that gives you the privacy and solace you need. Deekshaa Athwani, clinical psychologist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, shares how a happy place can comfort and help you beat stress.

You need a ‘happy place’ to lift your spirits and your mood

Having a happy/neutral place when you are down and out, can help one feel better in the following ways:

  • Reduce stress, anxiety and depression

Exposure to nature reduces cortisol, which is a stress hormone. It also boosts endorphin and dopamine production, which promotes happiness.

  •  Improves your mood

Nature restores our mood. It makes one feel calm and balanced. This provides relief to our overactive minds, refreshing us to undertake new tasks.

  • Helps in concentration and memory

It helps in creative thinking, and restores the capacity of concentration and attention.

  • Promotes a healthy lifestyle

Research indicates that people engaging some time in nature, complain of less body aches, fewer sleep difficulties, and show improved ability to perform daily activities.

  • Nature helps cope with pain

Recent studies show that we are genetically attracted to the elements of nature. We get absorbed by scenes of nature helping us to be distracted from our pain and discomfort.

Environmental psychologists strongly believe that nature plays a significant role in the way we think, feel and interact with others. Evidence and research support that we feel more empowered when we are close to nature.