Time in Nature for Family Flourishing
RECEIVE THE GIFTS OF NATURE Spending time outdoors is one of the most overlooked yet generative ways to support mental health. In an era of heavy screen use and overburdened schedules, it takes great intention to partake of nature. Yet, with the benefits so clear, making a daily habit of being outside offers easy access to profound gains in flourishing.
BENEFITS OF TIME IN NATURE
Boosts Mood Time outside increases happiness and wellbeing. It’s linked to children experiencing fewer conduct problems and a greater sense of self-worth.
Sparks Imagination and Creativity Open-ended outdoor spaces invite curiosity, imagination and problem-solving.
Benefits Relationships Being outdoors decreases self-focused thoughts and increases feelings of closeness with others and the willingness to be kind, generous and helpful.
Cultivates a Sense of Meaning and Purpose Time in nature draws us out of ourselves and into a larger story.
Supports Restful Sleep and Lower Stress
Eases Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Fresh air and sunlight help regulate circadian rhythms and lowers cortisol levels.
Nature calms the mind, clarifies thinking and helps reduce repetitive negative and anxious thoughts.
Enhances Memory and Attention Spending time outdoors helps improve attention and can reduce symptoms for children with ADHD.
Supports Sensory Processing Outdoor play offers rich sensory experiences, helping the body to learn to respond well to textures and sounds and strengthening balance, coordination, physical capacity and risk discernment.