If you browse through the articles at My Itchy Travel Feet, then you know that Alan and I are big fans of National Park travel. We appreciate that wild and scenic destinations in the U.S. are being preserved for our grandchildren and their grandchildren.
But National Parks play a more important and personal role in our life. A visit is good for our health—and yours.
Why is engaging with nature so important? According to an article at National Geographic, “being surrounded by nature has been proven to improve cognitive function, aid sleep, and increase attention span.”
Here’s a first-hand example: When I’m hiking through the thick stand of ancient cedar trees on Glacier National Park’s Avalanche trail, it’s as if nature wraps her arms around me in a comforting hug. Shafts of sunlight filter through to the forest floor illuminating the thick carpet of vegetation. Even the air smells healthy.
On more than one hiking trip, I’ve been tempted to curl up on a bed of ferns for a restorative nap. I bet my N.E.L.s would go through the roof.
Did you know that, on average, only 7% of Americans spend enough time outdoors? Does that number include you?
But what if you don’t have the time to visit a National Park? Get out and hike on nearby trails. If you live in the city, take walks in a park. Or stroll the tree-lined streets of your suburban neighborhood.
And here’s a benefit from nature that you might not know: nature is beneficial even if you are indoors. Lucky me, I have a beautiful Montana view outside my office window.
