Did you know that looking at the color green helps the brain and body by reducing attention fatigue and lowering heart rate, cortisol, and blood pressure levels?

It’s the easiest color for the human eye to perceive and it’s linked to better, longer, and more positive lives.

Attention

We have two kinds of attention: Directed Attention and Automatic Attention (Fascination). In our day to day lives, the brain is constantly using Directed Attention which allows us to focus and concentrate on something while also simultaneously blocking out irrelevant things. For example when driving, we are required to focus on the conditions and road ahead of us and at the same time we need to block out the endless text messages and notifications coming in on our phones so that we can drive safely.

However, chronic over-use of Directed Attention actually tires out the brain due to it’s limited processing capacity and eventually results in distraction, irritability, impulsivity, interrupted sleep, and so much more.

Reducing attention fatigue

So how can we relieve ourselves from the relentless directed attention fatigue of everyday life?

By immersing ourselves in a green environment.

You see, the color green signals to our brain to shift into Automatic Attention (or Fascination) which has been shown to relax muscles, is easy on the eyes, and can help you recover from everyday mental wear and tear.

Green is also known to boost people’s mood and life satisfaction.

And the benefits aren’t just in the brain…

Multiple studies demonstrate that surgery patients who are able to see green, nature, or trees actually end up getting out of the hospital faster with fewer complications and less pain medication needed.

Even looking at representations of nature help, as long as they are a good fit for us individually.

So how do we incorporate this into our every day lives?

Ideally, we would schedule some time to go into nature, whether that means a walk, a hike, camping, etc.
If getting into nature is not feasible in your day to day schedule, incorporating green could be as simple as looking out a window and softening your gaze at the trees and mountains and grass. You could also incorporate a short mindfulness practice in this by beginning to look at nature with awe and wonder. Isn’t it amazing how the trees and plants create the very oxygen we breathe? Look at all the colors in nature… different hues and textures. It’s a miracle to be on this wonderful planet.

So if you’re feeling burnt out or drained, consider incorporating more green into your life.

To read more visit:

https://www.apa.org/monitor/apr01/greengood
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/presence-mind/202205/cheap-way-restore-your-attention-and-focus