As we look for ways to help families, churches and communities live happier and healthier lives, we need only to look to nature as a source of support
As we look for ways to help families, churches and communities live happier and healthier lives, we need only to look to nature as a source of support. Spending time among natural elements, indoors or outdoors, can promote good physical and emotional health while also encouraging a more personal connection to our Creator. God often uses nature to reaffirm his loving care for us and science supports its benefits.
A King’s College London (2021) study found that spending time in nature boosts mental and physical well-being for up to eight hours, especially through seeing or hearing birds. Another study showed that simply listening to nature sounds can refresh a tired mind.
With the average child spending only 4–7 minutes in unstructured outdoor play each day, even a short amount of time spent in nature or engaging in nature-based activities can provide many benefits. These include developing the cognitive skills essential for learning, building stable family relationships and boosting their immune system.
Incorporating simple activities that make connecting with nature a part of daily life not only helps to create love and respect for God’s miraculous work, but regular routines provide a sense of stability in a busy world that can sometimes feel overwhelming to children.
Spending a few minutes each morning watching the sunrise can set a positive tone for the rest of the day. Sharing an age-appropriate devotion during this time helps connect God with His creation in a child’s mind.
Draw or write about observations in the yard or neighborhood. Things like changes in the weather, the presence of insects, small animals, rocks or leaves. Observe a bird nest from a respectful distance while recording the progress.
Plan a treasure hunt for leaves, flowers and twigs that sparks all the senses and inspires curiosity. Afterwards, do an art project with the treasures. By filling an empty container with small sticks, dried rice or small pebbles and glueing on the lid, a simple rain stick is created.
Plan picnics, nature themed parties or seasonal celebrations outdoors. Combine healthy foods with time for play and exploration to reinforce the emotional connection to nature.
Create small gardens at home — even a windowsill one. Planting and caring for flowers, herbs or vegetables can provide an educational experience and connect children to the life cycle of plants.
Observe the night sky, identify constellations and enjoy the vastness of God’s creation.
Making nature a regular part of daily life is a God-given, powerful way to support mental health and resilience.
Resource: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature
Ingrid Weiss Slikkers is associate professor in the Andrews University School of Social Work, as well as executive director for the International Center for Trauma Education & Care.
Roberta Colwell is a certified nature connection specialist, an Indiana Master Naturalist as well as an administrative and research assistant for the Institute for the Prevention of Addictions at Andrews University.
