Nature’s Impact on You
I’ve learned about the value of nature and its relation to human well-being from my UVic studies in environmental studies, climate change and public health, environmental psychology, and other courses with an environmental component.
From my experiences hiking mountains of old-growth rainforests, breathing in the salty air sailing by the beach, or simply engaging all the senses as I immerse myself in the moment with nature surrounding me, I have felt its powerful and vital impact on well-being.
Nature is powerful, magical, and enriching. The value of nature-rich environments is growing more important with dwindling health statistics globally. Nature has the potential to sustain positive well-being, and allow your heart, mind, body, and spirit to flourish.
Benefits to health:
Potential to reduce stress
Promoting happiness and well-being
Reduced likelihood of anxiety disorders and depression
Less death and disease for those who live near green space
A recent article by National Geographic, This is Your Brain on Nature, expands on nature’s invaluable impact.
“Wilderness is not a luxury, but a necessity for the human spirit. I’ve seen people, from all walks of life, all cultures of the world, drawn to this pristine mountain landscape for one reason - its beauty.”
Not only does nature yield incredible benefits for you individually, it’s vital for our communities, the earth and preserving the balance of life and all of its natural organisms.
It is essential to sustain natural environments into our future, and to further promote incorporating green spaces into our lives.
There are many global leaders around the world who are already incorporating green spaces:
Nature schools in Denmark, Finland, and other countries worldwide
Whitehaven Beach, Australia
Experience Nature’s Impact for Yourself
Immerse yourself in a natural environment and notice its incredible impact on you personally. Admire the surrounding beauty, and feel the nourishment that nature shares.
Be mindful that these environments are not everlasting unless they are likewise nurtured and supported, just as nature does for us.
Conserve and cultivate nature, so that you and future generations will be able to enjoy all of its richness for years to come.