Why Green Time Beats Screen Time for ADHD Brains
Have you ever noticed how a simple walk in the park can clear your mind? For those of us with ADHD, immersing ourselves in nature isn't just pleasant—it's like hitting the reset button on our brains.
Research suggests that spending time in green spaces can significantly reduce ADHD symptoms. Studies have shown that children who regularly play in natural settings exhibit milder symptoms compared to those who play indoors or in built outdoor environments. The theory is that nature provides a restorative environment, allowing our overactive minds to relax and recharge.
But it's not just about kids climbing trees. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from nature's calming effects. Engaging in activities like hiking, gardening, or simply taking a stroll through a leafy neighborhood can help improve focus and reduce impulsivity. Think of it as Mother Nature's way of saying, "Hey, I got you."
The colour green, particularly from natural sources, has been shown to have a restorative effect on attention and mental clarity. It’s not just "pretty"—our brains actually respond to green environments with lower stress levels and improved cognitive function.
This ties in with Attention Restoration Theory (ART), which suggests that natural environments help our brains recover from the constant demands of modern life and screen-heavy environments. That’s a big win for ADHD minds constantly battling distraction and cognitive overload.
Now, I'm not suggesting you abandon your responsibilities and become a full-time forest dweller (though living among the kangaroos does sound appealing). Incorporating small doses of nature into your daily routine can make a big difference. Maybe it's drinking your morning coffee on the porch, taking a short walk during lunch, or choosing the scenic route on your commute. These moments of green can help center your thoughts and bring a sense of calm to the chaos.
So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed or your mind is racing faster than a kookaburra on caffeine, step outside. Let the natural world work its magic. After all, the best remedies often come without a prescription—and with a much better view.
SOURCES:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7342051/
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1758-0854.2011.01052.x
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(23)00212-7/fulltext
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1420326X16638711
https://iaap-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1758-0854.2011.01052.x
