Play Now. There Might Not Be a Later.
A female Northern Shoveler smiles at me. By Kris Cochran
The morning a duck smiled at me, I had no regrets I’d let my yard work wait one more day.
With the hot weather, I’ve found the early morning hours are the best time for a hike. It’s also the best time to do yard work, but I’ve learned to prioritize play when I need it.
The smiling duck surprised me as I hiked along the trail through my favorite wetland. Wild ducks typically fly when a human appears. Yet the Shoveler saw me, seemed to smile at me, then continued to splash about.
I watched her for a few minutes before I remembered to snap her picture. I had been caught up in the pleasure she took in the cool water. She was playing like a toddler in their first wading pool.
The scene reminded me of being raised with a hefty dose of guilt for letting duties go and being unproductive. I was told repeatedly, “Play is the reward for completing chores.”
But chores are never done until we run out of days. Then, it’s too late.
New science suggests both adults and kids need outdoor recess
A female Northern Shoveler rises to greet the sun in play. By Kris Cochran
I’ve learned to let go of my parent's work ethic and pay myself first with play. Then when I’m working, I’m more focused.
Science backs me up.
An article published at the Yale School of Environment indicates our bodies need a minimum of two hours a week immersed in nature for physical and mental well-being. Immersion is defined as feeling safe and disconnecting from our devices.
Ecopsychologists find nature reduces stress, boosts our immune system, increases self-esteem, suppresses aggression, and improves our mood and mental clarity. How many pharmaceuticals does it take to accomplish all that?
I know first-hand the benefits of immersion in nature. When I hike the wild places here in Idaho, my aches and pains disappear, and my energy increases. It sure lightens the load of a heavy backpack and a heavy heart.
Can we improve the balance between work and play?
A female Northern Shoveler dances on a pond. By Kris Cochran
The good news is institutions are responding to the findings of ecopsychologists by planning new green spaces with equal access to schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces. For example, the 10-Minute Walk movement has organized mayors across the United States to ensure everyone can access a park within a 10-minute walk from home by 2050.
Has your city joined the movement? In my hometown of Idaho Falls, more and more biking and walking paths connect our neighborhoods. What an opportunity to unite our local communities by sharing healthy spaces with our neighbors.
Perhaps we all need ponds and ducks to remind us nature intended all her beings to splash around a bit simply for the joy of it. And if we live longer and healthier lives, won’t that give us more productive hours in the long run?
Thanks for walking with me,
Kris
Ecopsychology: How Immersion in Nature Benefits Your Health.
