Psychological research is advancing our understanding of how time in nature can improve our mental health and sharpen our cognition.

Be honest: How much time do you spend staring at a screen or digital device each day? For some of us, that number clocks in at more than 10 hours. Our increasing reliance on technology, combined with a global trend toward urban living, means many of us are spending ever less time outdoors—even as scientists compile evidence of the value of getting out into the natural world.

From a stroll through a city park to a day spent hiking in the wilderness, exposure to nature has been linked to a host of benefits, including improved attention, lower stress, better mood, reduced risk of psychiatric disorders and even upticks in empathy and cooperation.

Most research so far has focused on green spaces such as parks and forests, and researchers are now also beginning to study the benefits of blue spaces, places with river and ocean views. But nature comes in all shapes and sizes, and psychological research is still fine-tuning our understanding of its potential benefits.

Some of the benefits of being in nature:

Cognitive benefits - Spending time in nature can act as a balm for our busy brains.
Nature is associated with increases in happiness, subjective well-being, positive affect, positive social interactions and a sense of meaning and purpose in life, as well as decreases in mental distress.
Experience vs. connection - With so many benefits linked to nature, people naturally wonder: How much time outside is enough? People who spend at least two recreational hours in nature in a week have significantly greater health and well-being.
Nature might help to buffer the effects of loneliness or social isolation.

There is urgency in fostering connections with each other and with the natural world. The environment also benefits when people feel connected and committed to caring for the Earth.

What to expect:

Join us for a picnic lunch to forge some conscious connections and conversations with people. After lunch, we will do some mindfulness and nature connection activities. These activities may be done alone, in pairs or in groups. These activities and exercises will train our senses to tap into the healing powers of nature.

What to bring:

BYO lunch & drink, or buy from the Terrace Eatery (https://terraceonthedomain.com.au/eatery-menu/#menutabs)
Bring a mat or rug to sit and lie on.
Pen/pencil & paper

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