E3 Camping Issue Q4 2020 | Page 70

The Nature Prescription
“ EVERYBODY NEEDS BEAUTY AS WELL AS BREAD , PLACES TO PLAY IN AND PRAY IN , WHERE NATURE MAY HEAL AND GIVE STRENGTH TO BODY AND SOUL ALIKE .”
JOHN MUIR
These health benefits drive in large measure from nature ’ s calming effect . By drawing attention to our environment — instead of to ourselves — nature ’ s grandeur can help us reprioritize and recalibrate — recognizing that we are part of a greater ecosystem may result in reduced stress levels .
As we age , there are additional advantages to spending time in nature . Older adults who engage in frequent walks outside — especially when in the company of others feel — less isolated and more active , which can help manage anxiety and boredom .
Nature also has the ability to engage all of our senses simultaneously . To many people , this sensory immersion can feel like being “ bathed ” in nature , and it is the foundation of a popular pastime known as “ forest bathing .” Practitioners of forest bathing - whether they are sitting still in the woods or actively hiking through them — reported a heightened sense of relaxation and mindfulness .
And the positive health effects of slowing down , unplugging from devices and being in the moment can occur not only in forests , but also in a wide variety of other natural settings .
While the impact of nature may be its own reward , the time it takes to reap the benefits is actually less than one might imagine .
When you reach your camping destination , get out your set up checklist and then fill the prescription for your dose of nature . Exercise doesn ’ t have to be expensive or complicated ; taking a walk in a natural setting is easy to do . Regular walking is also associated with many health advantages ; it can help people maintain a desired weight , strengthen bones and muscles ; and prevent or manage various conditions , including high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes .
In fact , people who walk just 15 to 30 minutes a day have been shown to be healthier than those who don ’ t . Of course , those seeking a more vigorous workout can pursue many other Alfresco activities , including biking or running . Whatever exercise you choose to do in the great outdoors , the physical benefits will be multiplied by the mood-boosting effects of nature . All of these benefits can be yours on your camping adventure .
And as the naturalist John Muir observed more than a hundred years ago , “ Everybody needs beauty as well as bread , places to play in and pray in , where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul alike .” In today ’ s stressful world , this advice to let nature heal us — sounds like the perfect prescription .
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