The Power of Nature
The average child spends about 6 hours in front of a screen every day, and 6 minutes doing outdoor activities. Researchers are still attempting to understand the effect of screen time on our brains, especially those developing brains in children. In the meantime, we know that being outdoors and in nature boosts mental and physical health.
– Children and Nature Network, 2013
Today’s Wellness Wednesday provides tips for experiencing the outdoors in a new way, for all ages, at home, school and in the community.
Try this:
As a family, group, or class:
Go outside, take off your shoes and socks and stand in the grass. Feel the earth beneath your feet, feel it holding you and feel the coolness on your skin. Pause, look around, breathe deeply. Look at the colours outside and think about how God made all the nature that you see.
Ask yourself, there is no wrong answer:
When you think about how this earth was created for you and to supply you with everything you need, how do you feel differently since experiencing nature today?
Connecting to Our Faith
Saint Francis Assisi was a big believer in nature’s importance. Once he told his companions to "wait for me while I go to preach to my sisters the birds.” The birds surrounded him, intrigued by the power of his voice, and not one of them flew away. He is often portrayed with a bird, typically in his hand.
Further Learning
Parent/Teacher Resource: Children in Nature Toolkit Together in Nature: Pathways to a Stronger, Closer Family
Children’s Book: Nature’s Art Box: From T-Shirts to Twig Baskets, 65 Cool Projects for Crafty Kids to Make with Natural Materials you can Find Anywhere by Laura C. Martin
Employees of LDCSB checkout WorkLifeHealth from EAP Provider Morneau Sheppell
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