The great 19th century writer and environmentalist John Muir once said Yosemite Valley was his cathedral, his place of worship. It was a place he can walk in silence and be at peace with himself.
He publicized the importance of “wild places” as he recognized the more America became an industrialized nation, the more we were losing touch with those spaces. Now, over a hundred and forty years after he first entered Yosemite Valley, there is research as to why we need those places even more so today. Click here to learn more about the research involved.
The environments we have created for ourselves are more conducive to stress– traffic jams, a constant barrage of news (almost never good), and multiple media devices. It’s hard to disconnect. I myself am looking at two computer screens and two phones with a number of applications on all!
However, research has proven two things: 1) Getting outside and into nature can decreases stress. 2) Being physically active can also decrease stress. Why not do both? We can come up with a billion excuses – I don’t have time, I don’t have the money, I don’t think it will do any good. But, when you consider the money spent on medications, doctor’s appointments, and visits to a therapist, the cost of getting outside is more than worth it. You can take short walks in a park, a bike ride by a lakefront, or if you want to be even more adventurous think about a trip to one of our National Parks. This could even be made into a family event or a way to spend time with friends.
Finding a place to go isn’t as challenging as you think. A simple internet search on “day hikes in your area” can pull up a plethora of information. Many places even provide access for disabled individuals.
So take a deep breath and make a choice to get off the “I’m too busy” train; even if it’s for short bursts. You’ll be amazed at what the outdoors has to offer and how it will impact your physical and mental health!
Neal Palles, MSW, LCSW - Neal is an EAP Consultant with Anthem Employee Assistance Program who happens to also be an outdoor educator having taught mountaineering, backpacking, rock-climbing, white-water rafting through-out the west.