Nature Videos Halve Pain Perception, Study Finds

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Scientists found watching nature videos noticeably reduces physical pain, according to new research from the Max Planck Institute for Human Development.

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Brain scans revealed that viewing nature scenes actually decreases activity in pain-processing regions, affecting how the body receives pain signals.

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Unlike placebos, which only change emotional responses to pain, nature videos seem to reduce the actual pain signals themselves at an early stage.

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The results are extremely exciting," says Simone Kühn, showing natural environments influence "basic sensory mechanisms" of pain processing.

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Virtual nature experiences deliver similar benefits to being outdoors, making pain relief accessible to those with limited mobility or access to green spaces

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Different nature scenes affect the body distinctly - forests reduce stress, ocean waves create calm, and open landscapes promote feelings of freedom.

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This research opens "a wide range of possible applications" for pain management without medication in both healthcare and home settings.

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The findings suggest our evolutionary connection to nature can be harnessed through modern technology to improve health and manage pain.

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