Spending time in nature is scientifically linked to greater happiness, and Carleton University psychology professor John Zelenski is attempting to find out why.
Zelenski, director of the Happiness Lab, has spent years researching the connection between nature and happiness. His work explores how people define happiness, the psychological benefits of nature and how people in cities can incorporate the outdoors into their daily lives.
The Charlatan sat down with Zelenski to discuss his research.
The Charlatan (TC): How do you measure happiness?
John Zelenski (JZ): People interpret happiness differently. In research, sometimes we use the term “subjective well-being,” which emphasizes that happiness is up to how an individual feels. One of the main things we look at is life satisfaction: whether people feel their life conditions are good. Another component we consider is emotional balance, seeing if people experience more pleasant emotions than unpleasant ones.
There are also other indicators of positive mental health, which often link to Aristotle’s notions of eudaimonia — living a virtuous life and feeling in control of your environment.
TC: How does nature contribute to happiness?
JZ: We often refer back to a broad theory that because humans have evolved in natural environments, they are naturally drawn to them. Research shows that people who live near green spaces report higher happiness levels.
Experiments also show that people feel more positive emotions after spending time in nature. Activities as simple as watching a nature video or walking along a river can provide short-term mental health benefits.
TC: How can people in cities experience nature to boost their mental health?
JZ: Nature doesn’t necessarily have to mean wilderness. In urban areas, public parks, houseplants, pets or nature videos can all have great benefits toward achieving happiness.
It’s also important to take a mindful approach to nature, taking time to notice and appreciate it. A colleague of mine says “moments in nature are more important than minutes in nature.” Taking the time to enjoy small doses can do a lot to boost happiness in urban environments.
TC: What advice would you give Carleton students looking to incorporate nature into their daily lives?
JZ: It’s important to find what works for you. Some might enjoy birdwatching, while others prefer gardening or simply walking outside.
At Carleton, we’re lucky to have nature nearby. Students often underestimate how much better a short outdoor walk makes them feel compared to walking through the tunnels. If it’s a miserable day outside, even a short nature video can do a lot of good. Little doses can give people a mood boost, even if it’s not the secret to everlasting happiness.
TC: How does climate change influence nature’s role in providing happiness?
JZ: Climate change threatens natural spaces, which in turn impacts happiness. Many people are experiencing eco-anxiety or eco-guilt, meaning they worry about environmental decline. It is important that we preserve outdoor spaces so that people can still reap the benefits of nature.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Featured graphic by Alisha Velji.
