By now, we have all heard that being outdoors can boost your family’s resilience. Spending time outside has been recommended for reducing anxiety, depression, loneliness, and other ailments that come with social isolation. Recent studies have shown that time spent in nature, or viewing scenes of nature, is associated with a positive mood and psychological well-being, meaningfulness, and vitality. In one study, 95% of those interviewed said their mood improved after spending time outside, changing from depressed, stressed, and anxious to calmer and more balanced.
Start thinking of ways you can get your family outdoors as the weather gets warmer. And for those times when you can’t go outside, read a book that might inspire an outdoor adventure. Think about your favorite childhood books: picture books for young children, books for early readers, school-aged, and young adults. Books that are most likely to motivate kids to head outdoors are the ones about adventure and wonder. Reading together as a family is beneficial. Here are a few suggestions: “Island of the Blue Dolphins”, “Julie of the Wolves”, “The Jungle Book”, and “The Curious Garden”.
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.