Where do you go when you
feel depressed, anxious, stressed, or just plain worn out? We all have moments when life is a bit too
much and it is tough. It is one thing to
be active and reasonably productive, but what do you do when you need some quiet time?
Would it surprise you to
learn that taking your dog for a walk
could be therapeutic for you as well?
There is actually a field of study about nature-assisted therapies. Studies
show that getting outside in the fresh air can actually be good for your health and well-being. Stress is a terrible thing and being retired
does automatically mean that you leave your worries behind you. Isn’t it nice to know that a simple walk in
the park could be your salvation? The best part is that “nature therapy” is
free. Fresh air, wild creatures, and
beautiful landscapes are there for you, even if you live in a thriving
metropolis like New York. Of course I think that living in the Pacific Northwest is better, but I am just a wee bit
prejudice. For example: I have two very accessible parks with lovely
nature trails within walking distance of where I live. Once in awhile we have to share our space
with maniacal teens training for cross country marathons, but usually only the
dog walkers are out enjoying the quiet.
The July/August AARP
bulletin (www.aarp.org/bulletin)
featured an article by Richard Louv (author of The Nature Principle: Reconnecting
With Life in a Virtual Age). Who knew
that touching bases with nature could reduce stress, increase productivity, and
promote positive mental health? When was the last time that you used the out
of doors to renew your spirit and get in touch with your inner self?
The author had some great
ideas for bringing nature back into your life. You don’t always have to go
somewhere to enjoy nature. The simple
act of planting a flower bed or working in a garden can be good for you. Have you thought of creating a backyard wildlife habitat? You can also bring nature indoors with
flowers, plants, a mini-indoor garden or a greenhouse. The best suggestions were about how to be a nature mentor to your
grandchildren. Kids don’t go out and
play like they did in our day, so finding ways to introduce them to nature is a
perfect way to spend time with them. My husband still remembers every bird call
and can name nearly every plant and tree that we come across, which makes it
great fun to hike with him. We took our
nephew along for a walk one day, many years ago, and he remembers that outing
to this day.
Studies show that even minor
contact with nature can have a dramatic effect on your mental wellbeing. Isn’t it time to reestablish your bond with
nature?
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