Blog

Bringing the Outside In

From the moment we are born and draw our first breath of life, Mother Nature is there for us—promoting our physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. As a society, we are becoming wiser about the health benefits of organically grown farm-to-table foods and how natural herbs and tinctures have informed the development of many pharmaceutical drugs that heal us. Not as well-known, however, is the role that the colors of nature can contribute to our well-being, especially as we age.

Research done at the University of Minnesota showed that seniors who spent time in blue and green spaces enjoyed increased feelings of connectedness and renewal. Blue spaces refer to anywhere that has still or running water; Green areas are those places where we find foliage – being among gardens, plants or grassy fields.

Consider these FIVE benefits to spending more time outdoors:

1. It encourages physical activity and sensory engagement
2. It boosts vitamin D levels, which maintains a healthy immune system
3. It increases energy and vitality
4. It reduces depression
5. It helps improve memory and focus

In this strange new world of social distancing and home isolation, now more than ever it is time to use mother nature’s gifts to heal our mood and spirit.

Here are some creative ways to bring the outside in!

• Enhance the flavor of your meals by starting your own mini-herb garden—savor the taste you are creating!
• Become the Michelangelo of your own backyard and turn wildflowers into masterpieces #FacetheFoliage
• Darlin’ its better…under the sea! Create a simple aquarium with a few colorful live fish and sea foliage to add vibrancy and new life to your home.
• Close your eyes and imagine yourself sitting in a meadow. Can you hear the bubbling brook to your left? Use nature sounds to supplement your meditation and give your mind space to explore.
• Don’t have a green thumb? Fear not! Terrariums are a foolproof way to bring greenery into your living space without all the maintenance! Learn by watching this how-to video on DIY Terrariums. It’s one of our favorite activities!

For more ideas on how to bring the outside in and light up your life, visit our MindSense Cognitive Enrichment Program section on this website.

Written by Anne Sansevero