Natural living has become an increasingly popular lifestyle choice in recent years, and for good reason. The science behind natural living reveals that this way of life can have numerous positive effects on the body. Now I could go on and on about how MY life has changed since ditching as many mainstream products and practices, but I know many like myself are swayed by facts and science for many things. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the science behind natural living and explore some of its potential benefits.
What is Natural Living?
Natural living is a lifestyle choice that prioritizes natural, organic, and environmentally friendly products and practices. It involves using natural products such as organic food, natural cleaning products, and organic skincare, among others. Natural living also involves minimizing exposure to toxins, chemicals, and pollutants in our daily lives.
The Science Behind Natural Living
There is ample scientific evidence to support the benefits of natural living. For example, studies have shown that consuming organic food can reduce the amount of pesticides and herbicides in our bodies. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, hormone disruption, and neurological disorders.
Using natural cleaning products can also have a positive impact on our health. Many conventional cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin and eyes, cause respiratory problems, and contribute to indoor air pollution. In contrast, natural cleaning products use ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils that are non-toxic and biodegradable.
Another aspect of natural living that has been studied is the use of natural skincare products. Many conventional skin care products contain synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and other chemicals that can be absorbed into the body through the skin. Natural skincare products, on the other hand, use ingredients like plant extracts, essential oils, and natural emollients that can be beneficial to the skin without harming the body.
Potential Benefits of Natural Living
In addition to reducing exposure to toxins and chemicals, natural living can have other potential benefits for the body. For example, consuming a diet rich in whole, organic foods can provide essential nutrients that support optimal health. Natural skincare products can also nourish the skin and provide anti-aging benefits.
Some studies have also suggested that natural living can improve mental health. For example, spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood. Similarly, practicing mindfulness and meditation, which are often part of a natural living lifestyle, have been linked to reduced anxiety and depression.
You can read more about some of the benefits of natural living here.
Conclusion
The science behind natural living supports the idea that this lifestyle choice can have numerous positive effects on the body. By choosing natural products and minimizing exposure to toxins and chemicals, we can support our health and well-being in numerous ways. If you’re interested in exploring natural living, start by making small changes to your daily routine and gradually incorporating more natural products into your life. Your body (and the planet) will thank you!
References
- A study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that consuming an organic diet for just one week can significantly reduce the levels of pesticides and herbicides in the body. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26406306/)
- A review of studies on the health effects of cleaning products published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, found that exposure to cleaning products can cause respiratory problems and contribute to indoor air pollution. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27540863/)
- A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that natural skin care products can be effective in improving skin health and reducing the signs of aging. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6027647/)
- Spending time in nature has been shown to have a positive effect on mental health. For example, a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that spending time in green spaces can reduce stress and improve mood. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5580555/)
- Mindfulness and meditation have been linked to reduced anxiety and depression. For example, a meta-analysis of 47 studies published in JAMA Internal Medicine, found that mindfulness meditation can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. (https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1809754)
