New Study Highlights Restorative Benefits of Being Outdoors without Electronics

Bowman Lake, Glacier National Park

There is no lack of studies on the benefits of nature, from the health benefits of trees to the relationship of living near a coastline and happiness. A new study delves a little deeper and demonstrates that the restorative benefits of nature are reduced if a person is "relaxing" with an electronic device. It is amazing to me that people spend money to conduct a study where the results seem so obvious. However, it's great to be reminded of how important it is to connect with Nature. Whether you call it Mother Earth or God, it is innately a part of ourselves as humans and we are called to continually surround ourselves with its presence. So next time you are outside just relax, take a deep breath, smell the air, listen to the sounds, and keep the cell phone in your pocket.