Words Laura Potter. Photograph Stocksy
We all occasionally get hit by seemingly overwhelming cravings, whether it’s for a cigarette when we’re determinedly quitting, or the urge to reach for something sweet or a glass of wine in a moment of stress. Now UK research has revealed that simply seeing greenery can curb cravings for alcohol, cigarettes, and unhealthy foods.
The study revealed that people with access to a garden or allotment experienced less powerful cravings, and were hit by them less frequently, while those with views that were more than 25 per cent green enjoyed similar benefits. People didn’t need to be active in nature to feel the effects either; simply absorbing those lush green surroundings was enough to quell urges. So if you’re trying to make a heathy change when temptation hits, take a stroll in your local park and see if you can ride it out.