Tired of Doomscrolling? It’s Time to Touch Grass—Literally and Metaphorically

If your screen time has crept into “concerning” territory this week, don’t panic—just touch grass. No, seriously. It’s the internet’s cheeky way of saying: put down the phone, step outside, and reconnect with the real world.

But beyond the meme, there’s real science behind the advice. “Touching grass” means more than grazing your fingertips on a lawn. It’s about immersing yourself in nature—breathing fresh air, basking in sunshine, maybe even sitting under a tree and doing absolutely nothing. And according to researchers, it’s one of the best things you can do for your body and your mind.

“We are inherently drawn to nature, yet we underestimate how much better it makes us feel,” says Holli-Anne Passmore, a psychology professor and nature researcher. Study after study backs this up: time in green spaces lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, improves mood, boosts memory, and even strengthens the immune system thanks to natural compounds released by trees (hello, forest bathing).

Still a bit too glued to your couch to dive into the wild? No worries—start small. Bring the outdoors in. Place a plant on your desk. Add a bowl of fragrant herbs to your kitchen. Stream a nature doc or queue up birdsong in your earbuds.

According to National Geographic, who knows a thing or two about the great outdoors, you don’t need to hike Everest to reset your brain. Just stepping outside, soaking in a sunset, or listening to rain can work wonders.

So next time the digital world has you spiraling, don’t just scroll—stroll. Your nervous system will thank you.

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