We believe in the restorative powers of nature — and their ability to enrich daily life in a way nothing else can.
Take a moment when you can to step outside and embrace the natural beauty available to us, and the benefits it freely offers.
Heading to work? Running to the shop? You can turn any walk [even from your car to the office] into a chance to connect with nature, simply by being mindful. Take a moment to notice the leaves rustling in the breeze, the flowers growing in the sidewalk cracks, the sun on your skin. Crumble leaves in your hand as you walk, even in the city, and take in the scents . . . imagine them boosting your immune system and lightening your mood.
One of the most intriguing areas of current research is the impact of nature on general wellbeing. In one study in Mind, 95% of those interviewed said their mood improved after spending time outside, changing from depressed, stressed, and anxious to more calm and balanced.
Other studies show that time in nature or scenes of nature are associated with a positive mood and psychological wellbeing, meaningfulness, and vitality.
Furthermore, time in nature or viewing nature scenes has been found to increase our ability to pay attention. Because humans find nature inherently interesting, we can naturally focus on what we are experiencing out in nature — providing respite to our overactive minds and refreshing us for new tasks.
The simple act of taking time to experience the outside world is one of the most effective, satisfying self-care rituals; there is simply something magical about Mother Nature that allows us to recharge and reset our energy.
~ Photography by Megan Rose Patiry
Resources:
The Center for Health Design
Planetree