Our recent spell of sunshine has offered a welcome opportunity to rediscover the natural beauty that the city of Oxford nurtures. Perhaps you’ve enjoyed a picnic by the river in Christ Church Meadows, played a game of frisbee in University Parks, or gazed at the horses in Port Meadow. You may have also caught sight of a squirrel springing between branches or heard birdsong cooing among the trees.
Architecturally, Oxford is a beautiful city as well. With the exception of hotly contested brutalist architecture, much of Oxford’s charm lies in how its architectural grandeur entwines with the natural environment – ivy climbs the walls of centuries-old buildings, while oriel windows are bordered by flowers in full bloom. After a typically bleak Hilary term – when most of us were tucked away indoors, hiding from the grey skies and constant drizzle – this reappearance of life feels restorative. When the sun does finally come out, everyone takes notice. It’s a quiet reminder that nature can subtly lift the weight of the term-time intensity. And haven’t we all felt better for the arrival of spring?
Scientifically speaking, at least, we certainly should have. It is popularly touted because it holds true: spending time outdoors in nature is good for you. Some theorists suggest that nature’s inherent mathematical order may provide us with a subconscious sense of harmony and coherence. It is, perhaps for many, the rare situation in which fractals, the Fibonacci sequence, or Euler’s number produces calm rather than anxiety. It’s a compelling idea to consider how such underlying structures might influence our perception and wellbeing.
In fact, time spent in nature may even have improved the quality of your work. Research suggests that exposure to natural environments can enhance cognitive function by restoring attention and supporting sustained concentration. Combined with the physical benefits already mentioned, this creates an ideal setting for clearer thinking and more focused study. Taking a quiet walk to your favourite green area might be more than just a break. It could be the reset your brain needs to re engage with the demands of academic life.
