The 4-H Name and Emblem have special protections from Congress, protected by code 18 USC 707. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This information is for educational purposes only. Quentin Tyler, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing, MI 48824. ![]() Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. ![]() MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer, committed to achieving excellence through a diverse workforce and inclusive culture that encourages all people to reach their full potential. Exploring the benefits of nature for its therapeutic and healing properties could be the solution to bettering your overall health. ![]() There are many ways to connect to the earth. Moderate sun exposure or exposure to natural light can boost your mood by elevating your serotonin levels. Let the sunshine in your house or get outside.Find something you like to do in every season and then dress appropriately. Learn to appreciate all the seasons! Some may find it challenging being outside during the colder months.Don’t know where to start? Here are some resources for gardening. Better food choices lead to better health outcomes as well. Learn how to grow your own food or purchase produce from a farmers market. Another option is to grow plants inside your home. Practice techniques such as listening to guided imagery of nature or play nature sounds music. Guided imagery of nature is shown to be an effective intervention for stress reduction. Try changing up your exercise routine to include activities like biking, walking, hiking or snowshoeing. Finding ways to stay active outdoors can be a great motivator. Exercising in outdoor settings can be more relaxing than indoor exercise. Discover a new outdoor activity! This may include bird watching, gardening, hiking or volunteering.Take a moment to research some local natural wonders. Be curious! Explore the world around you. Most nature experiences are free or low cost.Being mindful can help us relax our minds and enjoy the present moment. Breathe in the fresh air after a rainfall or go to a farmers market for fresh produce. Mindfulness can help us learn to connect to nature better through all five senses. It’s important to take the time to appreciate the sounds, smells, tastes and textures of the earth. The following are some tips that may help grow your appreciation of nature: The key to improving both our physical and emotional wellbeing could lie in discovering the healing power of nature. According to an article published in the Journal of Behavioral Sciences, “Exposure to nature offers the opportunity to display control through a temporary escape from reality.” In other words, if we simply just change the scenery or step outdoors, it can instantly lift our spirits. Although not everyone may have easy access to green space and nature, there are still a variety of ways to enjoy the fruits of nature. This can lead to many health issues such as weight gain, heart problems, depression and anxiety. ![]() Science indicates that our environment plays a major role in our overall health by impacting our mood and stress levels. Prolonged elevated levels of stress are linked to many negative effects on the mind and body. In today’s virtual world, many of us find ourselves spending countless hours indoors staring at our devices, which can lead to many poor health conditions.
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