Toward a unified model of stress recovery and cognitive restoration in nature

There is abundant evidence for both cognitive and affective improvements stemming from spending time in nature; however, the mechanism underlying these effects are still under debate. Frameworks such as Attention Restoration Theory (ART; Kaplan 1995) Stress Recovery (SRT; Ulrich et al. 1991) have been helpful understanding how restoration achieved. Using neurovisceral integration model (NIVM; Thayer Lane 2000, 2002), we suggest that stress recovery co-occur they bidirectional manifestations of activity vagus nerve, which links peripheral nervous system (PNS) to central (CNS). Future research should examine PNS CNS simultaneously provide a better changes body brain associated with immersion nature. This program will scientific help inform public policy related human health, urban design, environmental protection.