Why Does Spending Time in Nature Make Us Happier?

This week, Monica and Jennifer sit down with Florence Williams, acclaimed author of "The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier and More Creative." When it comes to understanding the science behind why time spent in nature is so beneficial for mental health, you would be hard-pressed to find someone who is more knowledgeable than Florence Williams. In this episode, we chat about prosocial emotions like serenity and awe, the benefits of forest bathing, the impact of city noises on our central nervous system, and why investing in some great outerwear is key to enjoying the outdoors every day of the year. 

Show Notes

• The Nature Fix: Why Nature Makes Us Happier, Healthier, and More Creative, by Florence Williams (2017)
• Last Child in the Woods, by Richard Louv (2006)
• To Fight the Winter Blues, Try a Dose of Nature, by Florence Williams (Wall Street Journal)
• Is Your Noisy Neighborhood Slowly Killing You? by Florence Williams (Mother Jones)
• The 3-Day Effect (Audible)
• Florence Williams Podcasts
• Pre-order Heartbreak: A Personal and Scientific Journey by Florence Williams (2022)
• Why Does Biophilic Design Make Us Feel So Good? With Bil Browning (Biophilic Solutions Episode 2)
• How Do We Build Resilient Communities for the Future? With Dr. Phill Tabb (Biophilic Solutions Episode 1)