Add a Nature Boost to Your Day
Life in the great outdoors is good for us. Sunshine, or not, getting out in the fresh air is healthy, invigorating, and enjoyable. Most mornings I get out with our little white dog to join three friends. We walk city streets, paths, over bridges . . . wherever our steps take us for an hour long walk. I always come back feeling glad I took the time to enjoy the outdoors.
Studies show that spending as little as five minutes being active in nature, whether it’s walking in a city park, gardening in your back yard, horseback riding along a local trail, or hiking in the open country, lifts mood and self-esteem. Water, such as a stream or lake, enhances the effect even more. Being in nature also reduces stress and makes people more caring and generous. (Better Nutrition magazine June 2017)
God’s created a great big beautiful world for us to step into
It’s no wonder we feel better when we get out into nature. God’s creativity is all around. [Some of us might have to drive to a safe walking area.] Most of us can simply walk out the front door. Whether we see trees and flowers purposely planted by our communities and neighbors, or those growing in the wild, there will be something to enjoy along the way. Where I live, we’ve even got an occasional wild bunny, deer or coyote to stop and admire.
We’ve also got a water feature in our backyard. I can attest to the calming mood that comes when I simply watch and hear the sound of water rolling over the rocks and into the pool where it continues to recirculate. It’s very relaxing to sit and sip an iced tea beside the waterfall pond.
Even if mobility is an issue, nature can be enjoyed. Sit outside or near a window that can be opened to let the fresh air in. Cut flowers are mood lifting as well.
Today, I’d like to challenge all of us to get outside; to add a nature boost to our day. Then take a moment to recognize how good we feel after experiencing God’s great big beautiful world. What were the sounds, sights, and smells? Were there birds, earthworms, or animals along the way?
