Spending time in nature is critically important to our health and overall well-being. Nature is filled with alluring surprises waiting to be discovered. Sparkling emerald-blue waters, gloriously adorned mountain tops, and lush green forests are scenic jewels that nature offers.

Nature and Health

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that, prior to COVID-19, we spent far too little time outdoors. The EPA estimates that on average Americans spent 93 percent of their lives indoors and only seven percent outdoors. That equates to a half-day or 12 hours each week. This prognosis is not good considering that inactive lifestyles are linked to poor health and diseases like diabetes and obesity. In fact, three out of every four dollars spent on healthcare is allocated to preventable chronic illnesses. The adverse effects of some diseases could be reduced by engaging in outdoor activities.

Activities like camping, hiking, and fishing offered at many outdoor nature sites can improve physical, mental, and emotional health. Extension activities, such as recycling and volunteering at environmental cleanups provide outdoor experiences and emotional satisfaction for people as well.

Family Time

Unfortunately, a relatively low number of families take advantage of spending time in nature despite the overwhelming need to schedule quality time together. Family time removes barriers created by living in a high-tech society. Alabama’s youth are especially in need of outdoor time. Time spent indoors and online using home-based technology significantly limits their exposure to nature and quality time spent with family members.

Furthermore, the preservation of Mother Nature’s wonderful gifts depends on the ability of more of today’s youth and adults to sustain her clear blue skies, green horizons, and pristine waters. Older generations spent a great deal of time exploring nature as children. This is evident in their interest in environmental issues. It’s important that today’s youth and average adults enjoy those same experiences. Activities like nature walks and fishing trips can help youth and their families to reduce the stressors of life.

Benefits of Nature

Alabama has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the nation and the most diverse plant and animal populations in the world. Nevertheless, the future of the state’s public lands and natural resources depends on Alabamians experiencing nature and viewing it as a life benefit. Following are a few benefits that nature offers.

• Nature is a natural antidepressant.
• Natural scenes activate parts of the human brain associated with balance and happiness.
• Natural scenes motivate the desire to be a good environmental steward.
• Outdoor activities like jogging provide exercise and improve overall health and well being.
• Time outdoors allows people to observe, explore, and learn more about the environment and the challenges environmentalists face.

Some outdoor activities include:

• Land Activities: biking, picnicking, horseback riding, birdwatching, caving, cycling, hiking, walking, running, skateboarding, and golfing
• Water Activities: boating or sailing, canoeing (white water rafting), fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming
• Air Activities: kite surfing, skydiving, ballooning, drone racing, and paragliding

Nature Sites to Visit

Alabama has many sites, such as state parks for people to enjoy. These outdoor attractions provide the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of nature. So, take a break from indoor activities and spend time exploring all that Mother Nature has to offer. Let Mother Nature help you unwind, move, and start relieving the stressors of life. You will be amazed at the benefits that spending time in nature offers.

Visit the Natural Resources page for more information on the environment.