Sow it Grows

In these precarious times, many of us are filled with stress, worry and anxiety. The future is unknown and many things are now out of our control, creating a sense of uncertainty and unease. One thing we can control though, is our ability to go outside, enjoy nature, and savor the changing of the seasons as they march along, as they do year after year. Nature is an essential way to bring us a much-needed feeling of normalcy these days. Whether you spend time in your backyard, go for a walk around your neighborhood, or find a new outdoor place to explore, there are many ways to enjoy the outdoors and all it has to offer. 

Being in nature is proven to have a range of positive impacts on our health and wellbeing. Getting a healthy dose of Vitamin D helps your body maintain a healthy immune system, which is something we can all appreciate right now. Sunlight raises serotonin levels, which helps keep your energy levels up, calms your stress levels and increases positivity. Being in nature may improve your outlook, a study from Glasgow University “showed that people who walked, biked, or ran in nature had a lower risk of poor mental health than people who worked out indoors.” Studies have shown children that spend time outside have better focus and are less likely to have disruptive behavior, and those of us dealing with learning in these unprecedented times can definitely benefit from better moods and greater productivity. Taking a break from “screen time” can also improve your focus and increase creativity, and what better time to explore new hobbies and interests than now? Most of us are now finding ourselves with more free time, so try to enjoy these slower paced days and get outside, reflect, and embrace each day.