So it seems that nature not only makes us nicer, but also smarter. Or at least, it helps our brains function closer to their best capacity.

Recent research shows that taking a stroll through a natural setting can boost performance on tasks calling for sustained focus. Taking in the sights and sounds of nature appears to be especially beneficial for our minds. In fact, Dr. Marc Berman and fellow researchers at the University of Michigan found that performance on memory and attention tests improved by 20 percent after study subjects paused for a walk through an arboretum. When these people were sent on a break to stroll down a busy street in town, no cognitive boost was detected.

Source: Research Shows Nature Helps With Stress at The Dirt.

Yay, nature!