We increase our creativity up to 50% after spending time walking in nature, but not so by walking in urban areas. We reduce our stress and anxiety and blood pressure by walking among the trees for at least 15 minutes, three times per week over a six week period. If we unplug from our devices and go for a three day hike we become better at problem solving. These and other research are evidence based findings from experts such as Dr Rachel and Stephen Caplan, (Attention Restoration) University of Michigan, Dr. Quin Li, (Shinrin yoku – Forest Bathing) Nippon University and Dr. David Strayer (Three Day Effect) University of Utah.
Evidence based research affirms the wisdom of generations of philosophers, poets and mystics.
Cyrus the Great, 2,500 years ago built gardens for relaxation in the busy capital of Persia.
Paracelsus, the 16th century German-Swiss physician …”The art of healing comes from nature, not the physician.”
“I think I cannot preserve my health and spirits, unless I spend four hours a day at least-and it is commonly more- sauntering through the woods and over the hills and fields, absolutely free from all worldly engagements.” Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)
Mount Royal Park, Montreal – Mourning Walks
“I appreciated the bereavement support group, but the walking group really gets you out of your funk. You can just enjoy the exercise and know that you always have a place to go to discuss your loss.”
I hope my 40 second video will awaken your own life experience of how this reduces stress, anxiety, reduces blood pressure and make you more creative. After rowing into the marsh and taking a number of pics and this video, I put my camera down and just sat in my dinghy and took this all in … the sounds, the view, the mist … all seeping into me.
Your Mom was right … “Get outside and play!”
Rick C. Benson
Educator, Speaker, and Counsellor
Author: MY CHAOS Searching for My New Normal