How a walk in nature restores attention

University of Utah psychologists Amy McDonnell and David Strayer conducted researchh at Red Butte Garden, utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) to objectively measure the cognitive impact of nature walks on 92 participants. Published in Scientific Reports, their research between April and October 2022 revealed that taking a walk in the natural environment significantly enhanced executive control processes in the brain compared to urban settings. Strayer, a psychology professor, emphasized the study's rigorous approach, suggesting that the findings could inform city planning to promote optimal mental and physical health. Ongoing studies at Red Butte are now exploring how cellphone use during nature walks affects cognitive responses, shedding light on the contrasting impacts of distraction and attention on brain function.

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