Nature and the brain- a mental detox

"When we get closer to nature- be it untouched wilderness or a backyard tree- we do our overstressed brains a favour."
​-Florence Williams, Natural Geographic 

A new study has shown that spending time outside, enjoying nature can not only soothe the mind, but in the process, also change our brains and improve mental health. Studies are showing that those of us who live in cities, away from green, natural spaces have a higher risk for anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses. Studies have also shown that city dwellers with little access to green space have higher levels of psychological problems versus those who have easy access and frequent the natural environments around them; typically showing lower levels of stress hormones. It is unclear exactly how visiting a lush, natural space alters our emotional and psychological health, but colleagues and graduate student Gregory Bratman at Stanford University found that volunteers who walked through a lush, green part of the campus were more attentive and happier afterwards than other volunteers who walked the same amount of time alongside heavy traffic. The study strongly suggests that getting out into the natural environment could be an easy and almost immediate way to improve our mental health and ones mood. However, there are still many questions regarding the study such as just how much time is ideal or sufficient for improved mental health, as well as what aspects of the natural world are most soothing. For now there is absolutely no harm in getting outdoors, enjoying the weather, especially knowing that there are added mental health benefits! To help promote mental health and an active lifestyle, we have found this list of wonderful, kid friendly adventures to help get you and your family outside these summer months! 
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