by Mary Frances Hansen
Research shows that the time we spend outside can have a very beneficial impact on our physical and mental health. Being out in nature can generate many positive emotions such as calmness, joy, and creativity. Nature can help improve our thinking, reasoning, and other mental abilities. Spending time in nature can help our concentration and attention. It can help lower depression, feelings of anxiety, anger, and our stress hormone levels like cortisol and adrenaline. Studies have shown that our minds and bodies relax in a natural setting. This increases feelings of pleasure and can help us concentrate and focus more effectively, according to studies in the National Library of Medicine. Just hearing soothing natural sounds like birds chirping, rustling leaves, or flowing water triggers the relaxation response . Breathing fresh outdoor air replenishes your spirit and your spiritual soul.
Researchers from Arizona State University found that setting aside just 20 minutes a day to stroll outside and get some sun exposure or sit in a place that puts you in contact with some aspect of nature, has a positive effect on our bodies by reducing cortisol levels, muscle tension, and demands on our cardiovascular systems (lowers heart rate and blood pressure). It may also lead to lower rates of heart disease. An inspiring quote by E.,O. Wilson, ( He was considered as one of the greatest natural scientists of our time.} “Nature holds the key to our aesthetic, intellectual, cognitive, and even spiritual satisfaction.”
Sunlight provides Vitamin D and boosts serotonin the “feel good” neurotransmitter. The great outdoors can help increase Vitamin D levels which is very important for our bones, blood cells, and immune system. Connecting with nature will help you have a more positive attitude , counting your blessings and be more grateful of the beauty of God's creation. A great quote by Vincent Van Gogh, “If you love nature, you will find beauty every where.”
Negative attitudes can create feelings of helplessness and hopelessness which causes chronic stress that upsets the body's hormone balance. Negative attitudes can deplete the brain chemicals required for happiness and can have an effect on the immune system. Having a positive attitude will keep you much healthier.
Nature can improve physical wellness. People who engage with physical activity like tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, swimming, hiking, walking, and bicycling in nature helps keep a healthy body weight or even loose weight if they need to. Nature soothes and helps us with pain. Hippocrates, the Greek Physician and Philosopher said, “Nature itself is the best physician.”
A beautiful Bible scripture that refreshes my soul is found in Psalms 96:ll-12
“Let the heavens rejoice, let the earth be glad; let the sea resound, and all that is in it. Let the fields be jubilant, and everything in them; let all the trees of the forest sing for joy.” To me these verses express the magnitude and diversity of God's creation. Nature is not just a pretty background, it is alive with mystery and wonder.
Personally, when I go for a walk outdoors it reduces my stress and clears my mind. My husband Richard and I love to take cruises, especially with Celebration Senior Travel. We always get a balcony so we can sit outside drinking our morning coffee experiencing the beautiful sunrise and sparkling sea. It helps us feel calmer, happier, and more creative. There is something about the ocean that stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to our souls!!!! The beautiful sparking waters creates a certain amount of peace and helps us to start our day with a positive and exciting attitude!!!
We all need to slow down and enjoy the majesty of Nature and God's creation! God tells us in His word..... we are to live life each day to the fullest. We never know what tomorrow will bring. I love Maya Angelou's quotes. “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away” This quote is so meaningful to me. Our lives are so valuable and we live in a world that is full of worth while moments that can make us lose our breath with all the beauty that God has created. Be grateful and count your blessings for all we have showing unconditional love and compassion to others. Be Kind, Be Kind , Be Kind extending your hand to help another person.
Stay Strong, Stay Safe , Keep the Faith!!
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