"The Great Outdoors": It's a Fact

 To feel in the pink, think green (or ocean blue or woodland brown).

The multiple physical and mental health benefits of a "nature connection" are well-documented in numerous public health research studies. Here's one that was touted in journal, Scientific Reports. The title says it all:

"Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing"

(Mathew P. White, et al., Scientific Reports, June 13, 2019; v. 9; art. 7730)

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44097-3

The results apply to all age groups and the process requires very little other than some access to a few trees or shrubs, an  expanse of grass or garden, a path near a lake or pond.  120 minutes of outdoor time each week is ideal, but, please don't be intimidated if that seems out of reach. Just like any other change that you want to fit into your lifestyle, you can start low and go slow to get to your goal. 

Plus, you don't have to go it alone. Instead of meeting friends at a restaurant or bar, invite them to  a stroll in the park or even packing a lunch or takeout for a park bench mini-picnic to get your minutes in. Just two hours a week, by yourself or with a friend, child or family member. 

After 18 months, pandemic fatigue is setting in for many of us.

As we change seasons, we can change our ways of taking good care of ourselves.

Until next time, wishing you good health, a good autumn and a good time with Mother Nature.

For Your Consideration: What a Difference a Year Can Make

March 2021: Most of us will mark this one year anniversary in some form or another.

Grief--for what has been lost.

Hope--in light of the the gradual progress being made to return to what was.

Relief--that we may begin to connect with family, friends, colleagues and neighbors without the aid of a video screen.

Gratitude--for those who developed, tested, and arranged for the adminstration of the vaccine to all of us who share this big living room of life.

Please stay well and thanks for all you do to help others stay well, too.

2021: Lessons from the Coyote: Stay Adaptable

It's almost been a year. 

Most folks I know have been juggling multiple roles and responsibilities under extraordinary circumstances. 

Personal, political, and societal pressures have combined to result in challenges to our health--to our physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. 

On a personal and professional note, I have looked to Dr. Anthony Fauci for solid science and to the coyote for lessons in adaptability.

Dr. Fauci's credentials are well known; the coyote's may be less so.  

In the past 70 years, this clever canine has managed to expand its presence in North America by 40 percent. The coyote is found in every state but Hawaii. They've evolved to remain adaptable.

In such difficult times, how do we do the same? How do we increase our ability to adapt?

Research suggests: a) self-care, b) self-awareness, 

c) self-compassion, and d) community.

Research also suggests that any efforts we make in these areas should start small and slowly.

Self-help and educational sites can be good places to start. Look for guidance that is independent and not advertiser supported.

Here are a few:

Psych Central https://psychcentral.com/

American Psychological Association Help Center https://www.apa.org/helpcenter

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration FAQ 

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

Of  course, experienced, well-trained clinicians are a good resource, too. 

With our clients we are sharing the same path, adapting as we go, one step at a time.

"Moon Talk-Coyote" by Marion Rose (2008)