The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul.
Psalm 23: 1-3
For the first years of my life, I lived on farms near the Great Lakes of Canada. In later years, I recognized something important. I realized I recalled scenes from my life when I was anxious or upset. This helped me feel calmer. I remember birds and bees, flowers and trees. I recall fabulous sunsets. I remember seeing the water of a great lake meet the horizon. I have lived in many different places over the years, but I am still drawn to the natural world. I enjoyed camping, hiking, mountains, lakes and watching all kinds of animals and birds that run and fly freely.
Recently, I started reading about how being in nature affects health and well-being. City planners and government organizations are starting to take notice of the research when making plans. I read an article written by Kirsten Weir. It mentioned that one of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals includes a target. This target is to give universal access to safe and inclusive green spaces. The aim is to offer accessible public spaces by 2030. In BC, Canada, where I presently live, there is one initiative. The government has ongoing projects to add extra campsites..
There are several benefits to living in an area with more green spaces. A study in Denmark found that children living in areas with more green space had fewer mental disorders. They experienced better mental health later in life. Another article stated that there is a lower risk of depression and improved concentration and attention. On a social level, when outdoors, people learn to interact with family and friends in different ways. They engage in various activities, sometimes with people they don’t even know. Research shows that children with ADHD have improved attention spans after spending time in nature.
There are health benefits to being outdoors. Exposure to natural light helps regulate the sleep/wake cycle, which in turn supports sleep. Walking and hiking can help maintain health or support weight loss. When walking first thing in the morning, the body is more likely to tap into stored fat for fuel. Exercising outdoors is usually harder and longer.
There are multiple ways in which nature supports mental activities. During a busy day indoors, a person can experience sensory overload, which can lead to tension and mental fatigue. Relaxing in a soothing environment helps a person become more creative and better at problem-solving when returning to work. A research study shows that when a person is exposed to nature scenes, the brain’s empathy-related parts engage. The scenes also stimulate areas of the brain linked to love. Areas linked to love also show increased activity.
When a person is out in nature, all five of their senses are activated. The activity helps increase mindfulness, and the little moments of life are enjoyed. I can relate to those statements. Just watching a bird in flight can make me forget other things. Seeing two birds squabbling brings a pause and a smile. A majestic eagle sitting on a pole also has the same effect. When I am in my apartment, I like watching the movement of the trees. I enjoy seeing the squirrels running about. Even the neighborhood cats capture my attention as they run around. I don’t seem to notice the apartment buildings in the distance or the parking lot close by.
There are many ways to spend more time outdoors. Plan a picnic rather than eating in a restaurant. Find a nearby hiking trail. Rent a canoe or kayak. Walk your dog. Help someone rake their leave. Grab a book and find a shady tree to sit under. Shovel snow. Do as many of your errands as you can by walking. Pause during your day to enjoy the view from your window. Have nature scenes hanging on your walls. So many ways to bring nature into your day!
After God created the world, He said it was very good. I am thankful for all the wonderful different plants, animals, land formations, bodies of water, sights, sound and smells. On a busy day, it’s good to get outside and take a deep breath. There is so much more happening around you and inside of you than you realize. Happy wandering!
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