Study found shows Planet Earth and Blue Planet could improve viewers' confidence by helping them have 'more compassionate view of body’.
A new study now suggests that watching Sir David Attenborough's nature documentaries may boost people's sex lives.
The study found that the shows Planet Earth and Blue Planet could improve viewers' confidence by helping them to have 'a more compassionate view of their body’.
According to study author Professor Viren Swami, from Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, views of rivers and trees are devoid of materialism and so allow the viewer respite from thoughts of image.
He added, “Our findings suggest there could be a straightforward and low-cost solution for promoting healthier body image, particularly for individuals who may not have easy access to real natural environments, for example if they live in a city centre or because of a lack of mobility.”
Previous research suggests people have sex more often if they are confident in their own skin.
The study observed 36 students who watched two three-minute films shot from a first-person perspective around Cambridge where one film showed a walk through built-up streets in the city centre, while the other was shot on the banks of the River Cam.
After viewing the footage, the participants ranked their moods and body appreciation scores on a scale of five.
It turned out that nature helps individuals have a compassionate view of their body.
According to Swami, natural environments promote 'soft fascination', which is a state of cognitive quiet that fosters self-kindness and helps individuals have a more compassionate view of their body.
The researchers add further research is required to determine how nature scenes promote body confidence.