Can Nature Make You Feel Better?

Speaking from experience and observations, people are pretty busy all the time.  We may use social media, cell phones, and other technology to stay  in touch with others so we are not left out, or leave anyone out, of current happenings.  Sometimes I find myself being very irritable and grouchy when I'm receiving a lot of messages, or the computer is in my face for too long.

 I also find that, due to the busy schedule, I try to multi-task.  A lot.  I answer calls, type an email, fix food, answer a child's question, and check various feeds so I'm not missing any updates.  It's really no wonder I sometimes have trouble focusing on one task.

What if there were a way to feel calmer and focus better?

With little to no medication?

  

Numerous studies have been done, and the published results are rather conclusive:  

Spending time in nature can reduce stress and increase attention spans. 

 (Check out http://www.childrenandnature.org/documents/C118/ for an organized collection of studies addressing the affects of nature on humans.  It's worth the time.)

I like the idea.

Checking out what happens in nature is really cool, and always different.  It also requires one to focus and be patient:)

I can go outside whenever I like, no matter the season.  There is always something new to see and think about while I walk.  

Maybe I'm walking to get the mail.

Maybe I'm shoveling the front walk.

Maybe I'm getting out of the house for just five minutes by saying "I need to check on something".  Then I just walk a perimeter of the yard.  Twice.  On a bad day, I might just keep making the loop.

IT'S FREE.  Much cheaper and less paperwork than a therapist or prescriptions.

I know I feel better after spending, really, any amount of time outside.  This concept may be a big leap for some, a way of life for others.  But it is worth asking:

What if spending time outside made you feel better?

Would you do it?