Can a nature walk change your brain? Investigating hippocampal brain plasticity after one hour in a forest.

Abstract in brief

• A one-hour walk in a forest can cause changes in brain structure, specifically an increase in the subiculum volume of the hippocampus, which plays a role in stress regulation, unlike urban walks.
• The increase in subiculum volume was linked to a decrease in rumination, suggesting that nature exposure may help reduce negative thought patterns associated with mental health issues.
• Although initial findings are promising, the results need further confirmation due to statistical corrections, but they highlight the potential mental health benefits of spending time in natural environments over urban areas.]