By Barbara Pierce
Research continues to show that getting outside and experiencing nature can improve our physical and mental health in so many ways.
Many of us are in front of a screen most of the day — a computer, TV or smartphone. We don’t spend much time outside in the world of nature. Sitting or standing in an office all day can lead to feelings of stress and mental fatigue.
Research shows that our minds and bodies relax in a natural setting. This increases feelings of pleasure and can help us concentrate and focus more effectively.
Being in nature relieves our stress as it provides a mental break by allowing us to temporarily escape the demands of everyday life. It can also boost creativity and problem-solving abilities.
It may be hard but putting your phone away as much as possible — the less time on your phone, the better the health benefits.
And exposure to the sun increases the benefits to you considerably. As does exercising, walking, riding a bike, kayaking — any kind of movement — ups your benefits considerably.
“Trees are vital for a multitude of reasons — all health related,” said Gina Pearce, executive director, GreenUtica. “The mission of GreenUtica is to preserve Utica’s historic parks.”
The staff and volunteers of nonprofit GreenUtica work together to preserve the rich history of Utica’s parks, promoting the natural environment of Utica’s parks for all to enjoy.
“We also focus on maintaining a tree canopy,” she added. “Utica’s vibrant park system definitely checks all the boxes for contributing much to the health and wellness of Utica residents.”
Here are some of the many reasons why we all can benefit from taking a nature break.
Nature can help us improve our thinking, reasoning, and other mental abilities. For example, if you’re having a mental block writing a paper or can’t seem to solve a problem at work or in your personal life, step outside for a breath of fresh air. Take an easy walk around your neighborhood or office. The answers might find you.
Being outside can improve your mental health by decreasing your anxiety levels. Also, it has been linked to lower risks of depression and improved concentration and attention.
Additionally, you may find that you sleep better when you are regularly outside.
Nature improves our physical health as getting out into nature can lead us to want to walk, bike, hike or kayak more often. People typically engage in regular physical activity when they’re in nature. So, stepping outside will help your physical body.
Studies also show that being in nature has a positive effect on our bodies by lowering our heart rate and blood pressure. It also increase our vitamin D level, which is important for your bones, blood cells and immune system.
If you have a busy schedule and don’t have much time to get outside, these may help you get a quick nature fix: Stand outside for five minutes with the sun on your face or take off your shoes to feel the grass in between your toes. If the weather isn’t great, take a few minutes to gaze out a window at the scenery outside. Or even, take in a painting or photo of nature for a few minutes. Or go out for a stroll and take some deep breaths. Eat your lunch outside or take a phone call or meeting outdoors. Consider volunteering at a park or place of nature.
“For walking, there are three places I chose,” Pearce said. “There are two walking paths in Roscoe Conkling Park. It’s an Olmstead designed park, so has historic value as well. There are two walking paths in that park.
“The other park I like to walk in is F. T. Proctor Park, with its walking trails. It’s beautiful. It’s considered the ‘crown jewel’ of our city’s parks.”
“GreenUtica is a volunteer-based organization. See our website at www.greenutica.org for information on parks or how to sign up to volunteer to help with this important mission,” she said.
Black River Environmental Improvement Association (BREIA) is a nonprofit corporation that built and maintains this great way to experience nature. The1500 acre conservation and outdoor recreational area near Boonville, with hiking and cross-country skiing trails, public restrooms, warming huts during winter, is an inviting destination. For additional information, contact Lisa George lgeorge@broep.org or 315-484-3425. BREIA trails are open to the public all year, free of charge.