Loneliness is a growing problem in society. According to TV 2, a large share of the population experiences it.
Researcher Sindre Johan Cottis Hoff from NTNU shows that society’s focus on performance and social skills may play a role.
This can create pressure, where people assess their own value based on how well they function socially.
This has led to increased interest in alternative ways of understanding and managing loneliness.
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The role of nature
A research project published in Health & Place has examined the connection between nature and loneliness through a survey of 2,500 participants, according to TV 2.
The results show that spending time alone in nature can reduce feelings of loneliness.
This applies both to social loneliness and to the more personal form, where individuals miss close relationships.
One explanation may be that nature places no demands. Here, people are free from social rules and judgments, which can create a sense of calm and belonging.
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A particular approach
The effect depends on how one engages with nature. The research suggests that individuals must be present in the moment and actively use their senses.
Activities such as walking, spending time by water, or winter swimming make it easier to focus.
If, on the other hand, one is talking on the phone or occupied with other things, the effect is reduced.
Time alone in nature can function as a way to protect oneself against loneliness.
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At the same time, the researchers emphasize that there is still a need for more knowledge about the connection.
Sources: TV 2 and Health & Place.
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