This week we are on vacation in Northern Michigan. This is our first time to this area. When we vacation, we have a couple of goals: visit museums to learn the history and explore nature in the area. For us, experiencing the outdoors renews our spirits and souls. With COVID no museums are operating so this vacation there has been more outdoor time.
There is actually scientific evidence that spending time in nature can positively affect us both physically and mentally. Contact with nature is associated with better health and over-all wellness. Spending between 120 and 200 minutes per week in nature is the most advantageous amount to help regulate mood and decrease stress and anxiety. Individuals who spend time in nature become less reactive, more empathetic, focused, and grounded. Not only is our mental health improved, but also our physical wellbeing.
Exposure to green spaces has been linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and lower blood pressure levels. Forest bathing, exercising or resting in the forest, has shown to boost the immune system. Many plants and trees release phytoncides which can affect our immune system positively.
For me, water and waves are my happy place, so this area has been great with Lake Michigan, other lakes, and rivers in the area. Sleeping Bear Dunes is a National Lakeshore Park where we hiked over four miles in the sand. It turned out to be quite the workout but fun to make it to the lake and spend some time watching the waves. Another day we hiked 5 miles on the winding trails of Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area. Even though each hike was totally different and somewhat strenuous, it felt great to be in nature. We always return home, exhausted and refreshed all at the same time.
Do you get out in nature at least 120 minutes a week? It doesn’t have to be all at one time. What type of nature brings you to your happy place? I encourage you to get outside, breathe fresh air, and renew your spirit and soul.
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Heather
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