What comes to mind when you think of nature? What feelings do you associate with nature? If its thoughts of calmness, joy and pleasant carefree feelings, than it seems I might not be alone in this when I say that I truly believe that nature is biologically ingrained and forever captivating and inspiring to us
all. I had always felt very calm, clear minded and energized after being outdoors. As I further research the physical and mental benefits of being outdoors, I am truly amazed at the countless benefits. Did you know that being in nature contributes to a reduction of anger, fear, and stress and increase of pleasant feelings. Exposure to nature even when minimal will positively radiate through you as it will reduce blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and produce a hormone that will help ward off stress. It may even reduce mortality, according to scientists such as public health researchers Stamatakis and Mitchell. Nature is an amazing source of fuel for the soul and your body, it refreshes and ignites you all at the same time. So the next time you feel depleted try basking in the sun rays and get enchanted by the sound of the chirping birds for a healthy recharge of both vitamin D and increased dose of energy.

The international Journal of Immunopathology and pharmacology published and reported on these following list of factors of proven scientific reasons of why we should all be spending more times outdoors; improved short term memory, restored mental energy, stress relief, reduced inflammation, better vision, improved concentration, sharper thinking and creativity, and possible anti-cancer affects as well! When painting is done in an outdoor setting it doubles all health benefits. This article excludes the brief meditation session conducted prior to painting with “Painting Picnik” which I will discuss in
further detail in a future blog post.

Let’s never forget how simply been outdoors can recharge and reconnect us all at the same time! Let us never underestimate the power nature has on humanity as a main contributor to our general well-being and truly be kind to our environment that gives us so much and asks for nothing in return! Nature- If we hold you dear we will have no fear. A little bird twitted an invite for you to come out and join us out in nature at our next Painting Picnik event! Hope to see you soon.