Oh, the weather outside in Southern California is delightful.  Are you ready to go outdoors for some fresh air and a dose of Vitamin N (Nature). Maybe you could even splash about in your waterproof boots in the much needed rain.

I walk every morning.  Being outdoors and engaging with the sites and sounds of nature clear my head so I can channel my creativity in my work and daily tasks.  Maybe more so now that we’re in this pandemic.  Who else is looking forward to a complete re-opening of restaurants, movie theaters, malls, libraries and more?

We’re all seriously missing contact with family and friends which can add to anxiety for some.  In a recent article https://www.childrenandnature.org OR on Instagram @children_naturenetwork stated that “We hear from parents who have witnessed the power of nature to help reduce their children’s symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder and, for some parents, help fight their own depression.”  Quite a testimony to the power of nature!

And, a recent study headed by Dr. Deem at the St. Louis Zoo showed how blood pressure, cortisol levels and tension, happiness and energy all improve from a walk through a zoo with natural space and many encounters with animals.  Speaking of zoos, check with your local zoo to see when they’ll be re-opening.

We, in California, are blessed with temperate weather most of the year.  Wouldn’t you agree?  This gives us so many chances to #gooutside and relish the wonders of nature.

Charles Dickens said, “”Walk to be healthy, walk to be happy.”

TIP:  Of course, if you have underlying conditions, please check with your health care professional before incorporating a new activity.