Fall leaves, big benefits: Doctors say why a simple leaf-peeping walk can transform your health

APA couple, wearing protective high-visibility clothing due to hunting season, take a walk at dawn, as trees of in the distance turn to fall foliage colors, Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, in Chester, N.H. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) Fall has a way of slowing us down, inviting us outside just long enough to notice the world shifting around us. And if you’ve ever wandered through changing leaves without rushing, you’ve already experienced a “leaf-peeping walk”—even if you didn’t know the term. Experts say these mindful autumn strolls carry surprising benefits. From lowering stress to sharpening focus, leaf-peeping might be the simplest wellness habit you add this season, as per a report by Real Simple.ALSO READ: Gemini 3 release imminent - here's what to expect from the Google's latest releaseAccording to experts, that simple act of walking through changing leaves isn’t just seasonal nostalgia—it’s one of the most underrated wellness practices of autumn.Neuroscientist Dr. Jamey Maniscalco, PhD, describes “leaf-peeping walks” as mindful strolls taken during the fall when trees are shifting into their vibrant colors. “It’s not about speed, step count, or destination; instead, it’s about slowing down, noticing the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, and engaging your senses,” she says. The beauty, she adds, is that it doesn’t require planning. Whether you wander through your neighborhood or visit a park, “allowing yourself to be immersed in the seasonal change” is enough, as per a report by Real Simple.How do leaf-peeping walks reduce stress?Live EventsOne of the biggest benefits of these autumn walks is their calming effect, especially on overwhelming days. “Natural scenes, especially those with rich, vibrant colors and fractal patterns like autumn leaves, activate the parasympathetic (‘rest and digest’) nervous system,” Dr. Maniscalco explains. According to her, this response “reduces perceived stress and cortisol levels, and helps restore calm, improving mood.”ALSO READ: 5 whole grains dietitians swear by to improve Insulin resistance and balance blood sugarThat’s why a quick stroll under fiery treetops can feel noticeably grounding.Can fall foliage improve focus and memory?Along with reducing stress, these slow walks can sharpen your attention. “The brain has two general modes of attention: directed (effortful focus) and involuntary (soft fascination),” Dr. Maniscalco says. Nature scenes activate that effortless attention mode, letting your brain recharge so you return to daily tasks with better focus and productivity.Dr. Maniscalco notes that “even brief walks in nature improve working memory and creative problem-solving.” Leaf-peeping provides new sensory cues—unexpected colors, textures or shifts in light—that can spark fresh thinking and mental clarity, as per a report by Real Simple.ALSO READ: New poll delivers big blow to Trump as approval rating takes sharp diveProfessor of Psychology Dr. Mariah Schug, PhD, adds that “people’s performance on cognitive tests also improves when they walk outdoors,” reinforcing the link between fall landscapes and better brain function, as per a report by Real Simple.Why do these walks strengthen physical and social health?Beyond the mental perks, the simple act of being outside has real physical benefits. “Simply being outside encourages gentle movement, exposure to fresh air, and often sunlight—supporting cardiovascular health, vitamin D levels, and circadian rhythm regulation,” Dr. Maniscalco says. Even a short loop around a local park can contribute to better daily energy, sleep and overall wellness.Leaf-peeping walks also tend to be social—an easy outing shared with family or friends. Dr. Maniscalco notes that strong social bonds help buffer stress and support cognitive health, offering emotional resilience just as seasonal mood shifts begin, as per a report by Real Simple.As the leaves change, so does the rhythm of the season, and leaf-peeping walks offer a simple, beautiful way to tune into it while boosting wellbeing from every angle.Note: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor regarding any medical concerns.FAQsWhat exactly is a leaf-peeping walk?A slow, mindful walk taken during fall to enjoy the changing colors and engage your senses.Do these walks offer real health benefits?Yes, experts say they reduce stress, boost focus and memory, support physical health and improve social connection.Add as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel) Read More News onfall fitness tipsbenefits of walking in naturestress reductionmindful walkingcognitive performance improvementautumn activitiesmental health benefits of naturefitness hacks for fallsocial connections in fall (Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)Read More News onfall fitness tipsbenefits of walking in naturestress reductionmindful walkingcognitive performance improvementautumn activitiesmental health benefits of naturefitness hacks for fallsocial connections in fall(Catch all the US News, UK News, Canada News, International Breaking News Events, and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.) Download The Economic Times News App to get Daily International News Updates....moreless