Scientists have found that looking at pictures of nature on Instagram can actually make people feel better and more positive — even though social media often gets blamed for making people unhappy.

In the past, many studies have said that Instagram can lower self-esteem and make people feel bad about their looks or their lives.

But a new study led by Dr. Chris Stiff from Keele University found something different. When people look at the right kind of posts — especially photos of nature — Instagram can help improve mood and well-being. The research was published in the journal Psychiatry International.

This supports a theory called Stress Reduction Theory, which says that nature helps people relax because it feels safe, calm, and peaceful. In contrast, man-made places like tall buildings and crowded cities can make people feel stressed or uncomfortable.

To test the idea, the researchers asked participants to look at Instagram pictures tagged either #naturephotography or a neutral tag like #bookshelves. The people who looked at nature photos said they felt happier and more positive afterward.

The scientists think this might be because nature pictures make people feel more connected to the natural world. They also believe that looking at these kinds of images could be used as a simple way to take care of your mental health.

Dr. Stiff said, “Instagram has a bad reputation, especially for body image problems. But this research shows that it can also be used in a good way — to help people feel better and live happier lives.”