Over time, researchers have shown how powerful natural environments are powerful in relation to our wellbeing. From what we see smell and hear to more importantly, how we think, sense, and feel in places such as our own backyards as well as community gardens, parks, woodlands, beaches and dense forests, mindful time spent in nature is beneficial to our body, mind, and soul. Such experiences are also important when considering our stress levels as well as our sense of connectivity with each other and the other-than-human world.
In the current pandemic situation, the time people are spending on screens has rapidly increased, which means exposing ourselves to nature is even more critical to our emotional and physical wellbeing than ever. It’s also an opportunity to support and bring communities together.
Here are a few organizations aiming to get people safely outside.