Spring is in full swing, and Summer is coming upon us! A time of change and transition from spending time indoors to being outside. Several studies report the benefits of immersing ourselves in nature and being outdoors. In fact, some doctors are writing prescriptions for patients to spend time outdoors as part of their treatment for various chronic illnesses. Research shows that spending time outside in nature improves physical and mental health overall.
Twenty minutes a day in nature, whether it be a walk or even sitting outside, reduces stress hormones or the cortisol levels for individuals. In addition to a reduction of stress, spending time outside also contributes to many other factors such as: strengthening the immune system, improving focus and memory, calming the mind, improved vision, lowering blood pressure, weight reduction and a healthier diet, better sleep, less pain, and most importantly increased longevity.
“Nature Deficit Disorder” is a term used to describe a developing trend of spending less time outside and more time indoors, especially for children, but for adults as well. Children today are spending more time indoors engaged with electronic media than outdoors engaged with nature. In fact, one study found children knew more Pokèmon characters than names of plants or animals in their neighborhoods. How much time are you spending inside engaged with social media vs. outdoor activities? When was the last time you took a walk in your neighborhood or local park? Can you visualize it, or remember the sounds and smells associated with it.
Simply put, ”Grounding” or connecting with the earth and nature actually increases our electrical energy fields or vibrational flow which in turn makes us feel and perform better. Let this be a time of immersing yourself in the outdoors, of reconnecting to nature. Make some time to play in the dirt whether it be realistically or metaphorically while you are outside. You will definitely notice the difference, and enjoy the next few months much more!
The Mind Eclectic 