All posts tagged: stress

Nature as medicine

24 July 2019
by Jen Martin
comments 2
Anthropology / Medicine / Myths / Psychology

For years, people have flocked to cities for greater job prospects and convenience. Tara Bautista explores why something in our psyche still yearns to escape the urban jungle and is soothed by the great outdoors. A few years ago, when I was struggling with some mental health issues, I realised that the cramped city apartment I was living in was not doing me any favours. The walls were painted a calming pale green that was […]

Even the slightest touch

16 March 2016
by Jen Martin
comments 2
Health / Medicine / Myths / Psychology

Have you ever had a hug from a stranger? How did it make you feel: warm, happy, comforted? Feeling connected to other people, especially through touch, has been shown to protect us from illness. Something as simple as a pat on the back or a supportive touch on the arm can induce trust and reduce pain and stress. Although often disregarded, touch has a profound influence on how we feel and can communicate complex emotions without words.