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Reflections (continued)
everyone. We need the funding and the work force to create a powerful organization that will change the world.
We need the program to be non-partisan to allow politicians and other supporters to adopt ownership of the concept and the program.
In an article by Jim Robbins in Yale Environment 360 titled “Ecopsychology: How Immersion in Nature Benefits Your Health,” he writes that “a growing body of research points to the beneficial effects that exposure to the natural world has on health, reducing stress and promoting healing. Now, policymakers, em- ployers, and healthcare providers are increasingly considering the human need for nature in how they plan and operate.”
Artificial intelligence and robots and cell phones and video games? What about your health?
Nature Deficit Disorder is real. The studies point in one di- rection: Nature is not only nice to have, but it’s a have-to-have for physical health and cognitive functioning. These studies have shown that time in nature — as long as people feel safe — is an
antidote for stress: It can lower blood pressure and stress hor- mone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and im- prove mood.
With an estimated 40% of people not working, we need to be inventive in finding ways to help the unemployed and our envi- ronment. Getting outside not only improves your health but also helps you understand why we need to save this precious earth.
I know this can work. Let’s get together and make this hap- pen! Email me and let me know if you would like to help.
HCMA BULLETIN, Vol 67, No. 3 – Winter 2021
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