Have you ever been sitting on the couch watching Netflix when all of a sudden there is a earthy smell in the air? You sit there, ponder on the smell and realize that your window is open. Do not get up to shut the window. Get up and go outside.
Our generation were the last to make mud pies and climb trees. We have lost that form of entertainment to the infamous smart technology. Remember how fun it was to explore in the woods and jump over streams? Doing dangerous things that you parents would disapprove of? Today starts the movement of bringing back time in nature.
There is no need for 18-23 year olds to go making mud pies but taking a step outside to admire the beauty of God will bring an abundance of joy to your life. Surrounding yourself in God’s artwork distresses yourself. There are a few ways to do this. Instead of cooping yourself up in a small room with white walls surrounding you, go outside and do your homework. Grab a hammock, grab some friends and see how high you can stack hammocks together. Take a nature walk. If you are one of those people who do not like getting dirty, go to the zoo and find some peace! If there are too many things going on inside, I challenge you to decorate your room with flowers and greenery. Studies have shown that nature is stress relieving. It decreases your heart rate, relaxes your muscles, and contributes to your overall well being. Nature also has scientists researching its effects on mortality.
I challenge you next time you want to get up and close your window because the smell of nature is ruining How I Met Your Mother, take a deep breath, turn off the television, put on those walking shoes, go to a park and just walk. Allow yourself to focus on breathing and de-stress. You will become addicted to the effects nature has on you.
Photograph made available by Anthony Tran via Unsplash
The Mews 
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