Wondering how to reduce stress, improve mental focus, and increase happiness in your life? On the Sonoma State campus, the answer is within a 10-minute walk from the center of campus. With the guidance of a new Campus Green Spaces map, visitors can easily find and reap the benefits of being in nature.
In addition to the map, a new SSU Nature Connections site provides sample studies demonstrating the far-ranging positive effects of time spent in natural environments. Developed by Communications student Lena Coonen, Psychology Professor Mary Gomes, and Sandy Destiny in SSU Strategic Communications, the site offers resources related to some of the research.
One study, done at the College of William and Mary, found students' moods were improved by engaging with brief, one- and five-minute guided nature experiences or by simply spending 20 minutes outside on their campus, regardless of what they were doing.
To have a similar experience at Sonoma State, a person can go here and download the Green Spaces map, read about featured sites – including the Butterfly Garden, University Lakes, and the Native Plant Garden – and listen to guided meditations while there.
A note after a section about improved cognitive functions on the Benefits of Nature page concludes:
So next time you notice that you've read the same page twice and still don't know what it says, put your book or laptop down and go outside. If you have time, walk over to Copeland Creek, or spend some time in the Butterfly Garden. Or if you're crunched for time, just step outside, look at the sky, and feel the breeze on your face. Connect with nature to refill your teacup - your brain will thank you.