The frenetic pace of life in big cities seems to have spread to smaller ones as well, affecting our quality of life. The noise, the traffic, the rush of daily life, the children’s activities, the 5 o’clock meeting, lunch with family, and padel classes do not allow us to enjoy a slower pace, savoring activities and the calm of free moments. This overexposure to so many stimuli causes the activation of the amygdala, the brain region related to fear and stress, leading to issues with sleep quality, anxiety, and overall psychological well-being.
For this reason, many studies have linked rural life and contact with nature to lower cortisol levels. The pace of life in villages is nothing like that of cities, allowing for greater enjoyment, less pressure, fewer rushes, and consequently, a better mood. All of this directly affects mental health, as well as aspects such as creativity and improvements in sleep quality
We live in a world that seems to be spinning faster and faster. Everything requires haste, immediacy, automatic results, accompanied by a lot of noise. This type of lifestyle can have repercussions not only on physical health but also on mental health. It seems that we have forgotten about pauses, about enjoying quieter activities, or simply about practicing the art of contemplation. In light of this situation, many studies have analyzed this phenomenon and have reached a unanimous conclusion: life in villages is healthier than life in the city.
Living in the village or in a city?
The differences between both are evident, there is no need to enumerate them. However, from the perspective of quality of life, rural life has proven to be much more beneficial. Studies explain that contact with nature is directly related to psychological well-being. Life in cities is filled with stimuli, which generates the activation of the brain related to fear and stress, the amygdala. This is the reason why we begin to experience anxiety, sleep problems, exhaustion, and vulnerability to emotional issues.
Advantages of rural life
It is evident that the rhythm and quality of life in a rural environment has nothing to do with that of a city. Rural areas offer calmer and more leisurely settings that allow the brain to return to a normal pace. This is precisely what reduces cortisol levels, which is the hormone responsible for putting us in a state of alert. We do not face the same saturation, traffic jams, rush to cover longer distances, or overwhelming activities.
How can I improve my quality of life?
A good quality of life is related to several factors that, whether we like it or not, are connected to life in villages. Contact with nature is highly related to having a better mood, improving the quality of sleep and rest, and even relates to an increase in creativity! Being in contact with green environments, engaging in sports or leisure activities outdoors, and replacing the car with walking in daily routines has positive effects on our physical and mental health.
Every person has their own stage and personal situations, but it is essential to take time to care for mental health. If you do not want to or cannot choose a quieter life in a town, consider a vacation that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle, the crowds, and the noise, and experience the peace and tranquility of a slower life, even if only for a few days.