A new study from Norway found that spending time alone in nature, especially near water, may actually help reduce feelings of loneliness.
Researchers surveyed more than 2,500 adults around Norway’s largest lake and discovered that people who regularly spent quiet solo time outdoors felt more connected and less isolated overall. Surprisingly, group activities weren’t the big magic fix. It was the peaceful alone time that seemed to help most.
The study suggests there’s something calming about unplugging, getting outside, and bonding with nature instead of doom-scrolling on the couch while Netflix asks if you’re “still watching” for the fourth time.
Researchers say being outdoors can lower stress, improve sleep, boost mood, and help people mentally reset. Even just 15 minutes outside can make a difference. The study also found younger generations are spending less time outside overall, despite loneliness being a huge issue for Gen Z and millennials.
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