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Iceland is not an ordinary country. All those who have travelled and explored Iceland, New Zealand , Norway , Costa Rica , and Finland swear that they came back changed, healed and completely transformed. Most of them often use words like otherworldly, exotic, peaceful and transformative for these nations. But did you ever imagine why so many travellers who came back from a trip to these nations, all share the same experience? Is there actual science behind the feeling or is it just physiological?


The answer is nuanced. There is no scientific study that proves any such claim. However, psychologists and environmental health researchers have consistently found that spending time in large, natural, biodiverse landscapes like the abovementioned countries can significantly reduce stress, improve mood and restore mental attention.


All these nations have one thing in common: unique combination of wilderness, low population density and dramatic scenery which makes them an almost perfect (un) real-world setting. Modern holidays often promise relaxation, yet many travellers return home feeling as exhausted as when they left because of crowded attractions and packed itineraries.


If you're planning a trip not just to escape, but to truly recharge, these destinations deserve a place on your bucket list.


Iceland


Iceland can make humans feel small in the best possible way. Low population density. Black sand lakes, blue lagoons and waterfalls crashing into empty valleys, and the famous Ring Road winding through landscapes, together create an unreal setting. Researchers from the University of Akureyri found that spending time in Iceland's rural natural environments significantly improved participants' mental state. The study concluded that Iceland's forests, coastlines and open landscapes possess strong restorative qualities.


Norway


Norway is rewarding for slow travellers. People who don’t rush between attractions, and spend hours cruising through fjords, hiking mountain trails or driving scenic paths. As per environmental psychologists, the time spent in nature significantly reduces mental fatigue because natural settings gently capture attention without overwhelming the brain. Whether you're watching the Northern Lights or standing above Geirangerfjord, Norway encourages mindful and slow travel.


New Zealand


New Zealand is a perfect combination of dramatic mountains, turquoise lakes and glaciers. It instantly relaxes the mind. Psychological research suggests that varied natural environments increase feelings of fascination and restoration. It helps the brain recover from constant cognitive demands. Hiking in Fiordland National Park or walking around Lake Tekapo offers exactly the kind of immersive experiences researchers associate with improved well-being.


Finland


Finland is repeatedly ranked among the world's happiest countries for a reason. Nature here plays a major role in mental healing. Almost three-quarters of the country is covered by forests and thousands of lakes encourage outdoor living throughout the year. The research shows that spending regular time in green and blue spaces can lower stress.


Costa Rica


Costa Rica has more national parks and reserves than any other place. Rainforests here are filled with exotic birds, stunning waterfalls, unbelievable volcanic landscapes and rare wildlife. Recent environmental psychology research suggests that biodiverse natural settings are especially effective at promoting emotional recovery and overall well-being.


Why these places work


Scientists don't claim that any place or country can magically cure stress faster than another. However, the evidence points to shared characteristics that these destinations have in abundance:


Vast natural landscapes
Opportunities slow travel
Mountains, forests, coastlines and water bodies
Dramatic scenery makes us go wow
No crowd


So the next time life feels overwhelming, consider swapping over crowded attractions for glaciers, forests, fjords or mountains.