The Psychological Benefits of Scenic Beauty
October 31, 2023
Image credit: Alan Terwilleger

Scenic America is committed to preserving and enhancing the scenic beauty that surrounds us. Our belief in the importance of scenic conservation goes hand in hand with recent insights from an article published in Psychology Today. The article, titled “The Value of Looking at Long-Distance Views,” explores the profound impact of gazing upon expansive vistas on our overall well-being. Here are several key takeaways from this insightful piece and how they align with our mission of scenic conservation.

Scenery as Therapy

The article in Psychology Today emphasizes that taking in long-distance views has therapeutic effects on our physical and mental well-being. These benefits are not merely aesthetic but extend to our emotional health and cognitive abilities.

  1. Stress Reduction: Long-distance views can serve as a respite from the demands and stresses of daily life. Gazing upon a sweeping landscape can offer a sense of tranquility and calm, helping to reduce stress levels. At Scenic America, we understand the importance of such scenic escapes, where individuals can find solace in the embrace of nature.
  2. Enhanced Emotional Well-Being: The article highlights that long-distance views have the power to elevate our moods and enhance emotional well-being. These scenic experiences remind us of the grandeur of the natural world and provide a sense of perspective, helping us appreciate the beauty of our planet.
  3. Cognitive Boost: Looking at expansive vistas can also boost cognitive abilities. It is suggested that exposure to scenic beauty may improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Scenic America recognizes that the preservation of scenic landscapes is not just about aesthetics but also about nurturing cognitive wellness.

Scenic Wellness and Conservation

Scenic America advocates for the protection of scenic resources nationwide, and these recent findings in Psychology Today reaffirm our mission. We consider scenic wellness a crucial aspect of our advocacy, underscoring the positive impact of natural beauty on our lives.

  1. Healing Power of Nature: The therapeutic benefits of scenic beauty underscore the importance of our work in preserving natural landscapes. When we advocate for the protection of wilderness areas, sustainable urban planning, and efforts to reduce visual clutter, we are contributing to the well-being of our communities and ourselves.
  2. Access for All Generations: By preserving our scenic wonders, we ensure that future generations can also benefit from the restorative power of scenic beauty. Scenic America believes that everyone should have access to these natural spaces, and our efforts reflect our commitment to this vision.

The insights from Psychology Today validate the profound connection between scenic beauty and our well-being. They mirror the core principles of Scenic America and our dedication to preserving and enhancing scenic landscapes. Our mission to protect these natural and man-made vistas is not only about aesthetics but also about fostering the physical and mental well-being of individuals and communities.

As we champion scenic conservation, let us celebrate the therapeutic value of long-distance views and the positive impact they have on our lives. Together, we can ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the healing power of scenic beauty and the solace it brings to our souls.