Viewing nature could help reduce the perception of pain, according to a new study.

Researchers from the University of Exeter and the University of Vienna found that people experienced less pain when observing natural scenes compared to urban or office environments. The study, conducted in Austria, involved 49 participants who received mild electric shocks while watching various videos.

The research, published in Nature Communications, used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to track brain activity.

While viewing natural scenes, participants not only reported feeling less pain but also displayed altered brain responses associated with pain processing.

Dr. Alex Smalley, a co-author from the University of Exeter, expressed hope that the findings would reinforce the importance of preserving healthy natural environments.

Dr Smalley added: “This study highlights how virtual encounters can bring the healing potential of nature to people when they can’t get outside.”

He noted that the study opens new research opportunities to further explore how nature influences mental processes.

Max Steininger, a PhD student at the University of Vienna and the study’s lead author, emphasised that the pain-relieving effects of nature are real but modest—about half as effective as standard painkillers.

“People in pain should certainly continue taking any medication they have been prescribed,” Mr Steininger said.

“But we hope in future alternative ways of relieving pain, such as experiencing nature, may be used to help improve pain management.”

The findings add to growing evidence that exposure to natural environments can positively impact physical and mental well-being, encouraging further exploration in this field.