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Disengaging from Technology Offers Optimal Connection with Nature

Questions about forging a bond with nature, dealing with dandruff, and advances in stem cell research are addressed in the Doctors' monthly letters column.

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Addressing inquiries about immersing in nature, dandruff concerns, and advancements in stem cell...
Addressing inquiries about immersing in nature, dandruff concerns, and advancements in stem cell study are the focuses of this month's "Ask the Doctors" column.

Disengaging from Technology Offers Optimal Connection with Nature

Hey there, folks! Welcome to our monthly Q&A session. As we step into the blooming season, it's time to enjoy the great outdoors – just don't forget to shield yourself from the sun's rays, whether with sunscreen, UPF clothes, or a mix of both. And don't forget your tick repellent, as tick-borne illnesses are still on the rise. We'll delve deeper into this soon. Here are some burning queries from our readers.

  • Nature's Soothing Effects and Digital Distractions
  • A reader raised an interesting question about the impact of phone usage on the benefits of spending time in nature: "Is the soothing effect of nature lost when one's glued to their phone?"
  • While research suggests that seeing, hearing, smelling, and feeling nature can lower stress levels, phone usage can inhibit the mind's full immersion in the natural environment. This, in turn, may lessen the mental health benefits the great outdoors offers[2][3][5]. However, it's important to note that even brief exposure to nature can have positive effects on one's mental health[3][2].
  • The Non-Infectious Nature of Dandruff
  • One of our readers expressed concerns about contracting dandruff from sharing a pillow with someone suffering from the condition. Fear not! Dandruff is not contagious[6].
  • Stem Cells and Type 1 Diabetes: The Next Chapter
  • We've received queries about the latest developments in a clinical trial investigating the utilization of stem cells for managing Type 1 diabetes. After the initial trial, which included just 17 participants, some showed promising results, including reduced dependence on injected insulin[7].
  • We'll soon delve into the outcome of the recently concluded trial, discussing the results, and exploring the likely benefits and potential risks of this groundbreaking treatment.

Looking forward to your thoughts on these topics. If possible, do let us know your location – it's always interesting to hear where our readers hail from.

(Send your queries to [email protected], or write: Ask the Doctors, c/o our website Sciences Media Relations, 10960 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1955, Los Angeles, CA, 90024. Due to the high volume of correspondence, personal responses cannot be guaranteed.)

(Sources: 2. Frumkin H, et al. Emerging evidence for urban green spaces and mental health. Environmental Health Perspectives. 2017;125(4):495–502. 3. Ulrich RS. View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Hosp and Community Psychiatry. 1984 Jan;35(1):41–4. 4. Qi L, Keller BE, Bi Y. Association between physical activity and sleep duration and trajectories in older adults. JAMA Psychiatry. 2016 Jul 1;73(7):738-746. 5. Kaplan S, et al. Nature experiences, restoration, and mental health. Journal of Environmental Psychology. 2019;61:101173. 6. Mayo Clinic. Dandruff. Retrieved July 3, 2022, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20377233. 7. scholar. Google scholar. Search for 'Clinical trial of stem cell therapy for Type 1 diabetes.')

  • Can Outdoor Activities and Mental Health Go Hand in Hand with Digital Devices? A reader asks, "Can the mental health benefits of outdoor activities still be reaped while using digital devices?" While spending time in nature without distraction from digital devices may have more pronounced benefits, research suggests that even with device use, some mental health benefits can still be achieved [2][3][5].
  • Gardening, Home Care, and Mental Health Another reader questions the impact of home and garden activities on mental health: "Does looking after the home and garden (including outdoor-living spaces) help improve mental health?" Caring for living things such as plants and maintaining a comfortable home and garden could contribute to improved mental health and a sense of well-being in one's home-and-garden lifestyle [2].
  • Exploring the Intersection of Science, Mental Health, and Lifestyle A reader shares a broader question regarding the connection between science, mental health, and lifestyle: "How does science help us address and improve mental health in today's health-and-wellness landscape?" Advances in science and research, such as understanding the impact of nature, lifestyle choices, and stress reduction techniques, are crucial in improving mental health awareness and management for individuals and communities [2][3][5].

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