It is a time where people are stressed for the holidays; running around shopping for the perfect gift, trying to get to family, and unsure of the future due to the global pandemic. I wanted to set the scene for everyone to take the time to enjoy the little things. To enjoy the simplicity of nature. Nature can be seen as something to distract from the everyday stress of this time. Covid-19 has made people stay inside and socially distanced from people the entire year, but going outside and seeing the beautiful landscape can boost your mental state.
“Getting outside to breathe fresh air, see the sun rise, feel the breeze — these can be centering experiences that are vital to our mental wellness, It’s good medicine, and time with nature doesn’t require a prescription.” - Lisa M. Carlson, MPH, MCHES, president of the American Public Health Association
This Global pandemic has brought people to be unsure whether tomorrow is promised or not. Go out in your backyard or local park or trail and let your troubles go. Breathe in the fresh air, go walk and feel the brisk air on your face. This time is one that we cherish family and health and you appreciate the space around you with the ones you love.
Where I live, I can just smell this picture. Living near farms my whole life, I have always known what smells they bring. This pasture of cows has always drawn my attention because they will come up to the fence to socialize with you. I like to just take some time to go and see them. They are animals none the less and most animals can cure a bad mood from a long day.
Peak through all of the work and stress that this time has to bring. Empower your mind to think positive and be optimistic. Find new hobbies, read books, and have fun. We are all in this together and no one needs to be down for the holidays. Do not get trapped under all the work, be like the grass and reach for the light.
Enjoy the night life. Go out and see some festive lights to brighten your mood. Enjoying nature can be just as fun and healing as it is in the daytime. Start a routine of leaving your house and enjoying what nature has to offer at night, while social distancing of course.
Nature may refer to living plants and animals, geological processes, weather, and physics, such as matter and energy. The plant life is quite fascinating, during this cold time I was intrigued by the changes in how the plants have adapted. The small stream by my house froze over but I could still see the small fish swimming throughout. I took the liberty in feeding the birds in my backyard at our bird feeder. I have always been interested in backyard birds and this year is no different. It is calming to watch the different birds such as Robins, Cardinals, Blue Jays, Bluebirds and Woodpeckers pass by and take their meal.
It is calming to just sit back and relax and admire the clouds, admire what is passing over your head, admire the different colors as time passes. Playing soccer in the background is my younger brother and Gavin Mpiana '23. We were getting some exercise in while the weather was still warmer. Some clear weather can make for a clear head. It was nice to get away from the heavy duty workload of school and just have some fun with family and friends.
Credits:
Noah Toole '22