Time in Nature Nutures
Nature provides a no cost easy access way to improve your well-being. This is true whether you are feeling the stress build, are calm and at ease, or find yourself somewhere between the two. Here are 5 simple ways to connect with nature and reap those benefits.
Take a Calming & Mood Boosting Nature break
Research has shown that just 30min of time around nature, even if it’s in a park, significantly improves our mood and calms our nervous system.
Smell the Evergreens for Lung Health
Trees give off phytoncides which have immune boosting properties. While a deciduous trees loose their leaves in the winter, evergreens continue to release these health supporting chemicals. So find an evergreen on your next break and take some time to enjoy a breath of fresh air.
Take a Walk to Improve Focus and Memory
Simply taking a walk in a natural space can improve your ability to focus and remember. If you can’t take a walk, try to sit outside where you can see trees or birds or other natural elements.
Take a Stretch & Movement Break
Plan frequent breaks throughout your day and take them outside. Getting up and stretching (whether you are a working adult or a growing child) is important for our bodies. Heading outside is a wonderful way to combine the benefits of movement with the benefits of nature. And it’s just more fun!
Seek out Soothing Sights & Sounds
The sounds we encounter in natural environments, help our bodies to calm and recover. Babbling brooks, wind in the trees, and the quiet of a forest all help our heart rates and breathing to slow and deepen and help our minds to quiet.
Take time this week to invest in your own and your children’s well-being by taking sometime to connect with nature.
Written by Tandy Morton, Wild Child Facilitator