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8. Why does nature make me feel calmer?

Why Do We Do That? Series 2

Paleoanthropologist Ella Al-Shamahi asks why being in nature makes us feel calmer?

Nature is charismatic, a good view can take our breath away and a walk in the woods can help de-stress our frazzled minds. But have we always been this way? Because after all, our early ancestors didn’t have cities to escape from. Is an affinity with the natural world around us, something we inherited? Ella Al-Shamahi asks psychologist Dr Gregory Bratman and Robin Muir Head of Maggie’s Cancer Care Centre Manchester what are the benefits of spending time in green spaces.

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15 minutes

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Sunday 14:45

BBC Radio 4

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Fri 14 Mar 2025 14:45

BBC Radio 4
Sunday 14:45

BBC Radio 4

Mental Wellbeing

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Why Do We Do That?

Ella Al-Shamahi investigates the origins of everyday human habits and behaviour.

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