In today’s era of information explosion, people receive a large amount of information through various channels such as computers, mobile phones, TV, and the internet every day, keeping their brains constantly in a state of focused attention without a moment of rest.
Experts say that if the brain can be temporarily “shut down”, people’s cognitive performance would be significantly different. Anna Kenyon, a senior lecturer in population health at the University of Lancashire in the UK, wrote in an article on The Conversation website that what our brains truly need is some essential rest time where attention is not concentrated. By not deliberately focusing on anything and letting our thoughts wander, we can reduce stress and enhance cognitive sharpness.
Kenyon pointed out that the attention restoration theory proposed by American psychologists Stephen Kaplan and his wife in 1989 can help the brain in this regard. The theory suggests that spending time in nature helps restore focus and attention.
The psychologist couple explained that attention comes in two distinctly different types: directed attention and undirected attention. Directed attention refers to intentionally concentrating the brain, such as when studying, essentially guiding the brain’s attention to specific activities.
Undirected attention, on the other hand, involves not deliberately focusing on anything but allowing things to naturally attract our attention. For example, listening to bird chirping or watching tree leaves gently swaying in the breeze. In these situations, our attention will naturally drift without the need for a forced focus.
Continuously being in a state of focused attention can lead to “attention fatigue”, making it increasingly difficult to concentrate and easier to become distracted.
In the past, we may have encountered many situations in daily life that could be classified as “boring”, such as waiting for a bus or queuing at a supermarket, which actually provide the brain with an opportunity to relax. However, with the rise of smartphones, our overworked brains are finding it increasingly difficult to find time to rest.
The Kaplan’s theory has been supported by research. Several studies have shown a correlation between being in nature and reducing stress levels, improving attention, enhancing mental health, boosting mood, and enhancing cognitive function.
Research has found that exposure to natural environments is associated with improvements in various aspects of cognitive abilities, including attention. Another study discovered that adults walking in a natural environment for 40 minutes experienced reduced stress levels and improved attention compared to those walking in urban environments.
Research even suggests that just 10 minutes of undirected attention can significantly improve cognitive test scores and reduce attention fatigue. Merely walking on a treadmill while enjoying natural scenery can also produce this effect.
Kenyon suggests several methods to apply the attention restoration theory in daily life.
Firstly, find a green space, whether it’s a nearby park, a riverside spot to sit, or a forest path for hiking. Then, put away your phone and other distractions.
During moments in the day when you feel bored, consider this time as an opportunity for your thoughts to wander, rather than reaching for your phone.
If you find that when trying to put the attention restoration theory into action, your brain keeps pulling you back to structured tasks (such as planning your week in your mind), it may indicate that you should go to a place that makes it easier for your thoughts to wander.
Whether you are watching a ladybug crawl across your desk or admiring vast natural landscapes, try not to focus your attention. This is not being lazy but rather maintaining your nervous system.