STUDY: Solo Nature Activities More Effective at Reducing Loneliness Than Group Outings

Published April 21, 2026

A study conducted by Norwegian researchers involving 2,544 participants revealed that spending time alone in natural settings alleviates feelings of loneliness more effectively than engaging in outdoor activities with others. The primary contributors to this effect were a sense of connection to the natural environment and emotional bonds with particular locations, rather than social interaction.

Activities such as walking along shorelines, relaxing by lakes, and ice walking demonstrated the most significant benefits when performed individually.

Outdoor exercise showed less pronounced effects because the participants' focus was primarily on the physical activity itself rather than their natural surroundings.

The researchers found that solitude provides mental space to become more aware of the environment instead of engaging in conversation. Nonetheless, they warn that excessive isolation may have negative consequences.