Monthly Mission: Spend Time in Nature

By Riannon Westall

Sometimes we’re so caught up with our busy lives that we forget about nature.

But, what better time to enjoy the sun than summer?

Not only will the fresh air reinvigorate you, but you’ll benefit from the healing powers of nature as well! A study by Chiba University found that being around plants lowers levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), lowers pulse rate and lowers blood pressure. Another study by the University of Illinois suggested that exposing children to natural settings could reduce symptoms of attention-deficit disorder.

Spend some quality time with nature. Try these ideas:

Take your dog out for walk, not down the street, but to a park.
Take a weekend vacation to the country. Rent a cottage or go camping.
De-stress after work by taking a drive to the country and stopping for a picnic.
Go for a morning jog or hike.
Go for an after-dinner walk.
Take a book and go read in the park.
Start a garden or help a friend with theirs.

WE WANT TO KNOW:

What are you doing this summer to spend more time outside? Tell us in the comments!