By Jenifer Morgan, IdealBite.com
When I wasn't in school, I spent the majority of my time as a kid outside - granted, it was remarkably easy since I lived on a 160-acre farm and had a wildly active family. Whether we were hiking or fishing, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, the fam would usually take a moment after lunch to find a comfy nest of pine needles or packed snow, close our eyes, and have a rest - we called it "communing," despite the fact that it frequently involved "napping."
Regardless, that time was so restorative - just listening to the sounds of birds flapping around, wind blowing through the trees, sometimes water rushing by. It calmed our nerves and heightened our sense of awareness at the same time.
I mean, there's a reason we look forward to vacations in naturally beautiful, remote places like Hawaii, right? It all seems pretty "no duh," but I think we forget the ease and enjoyment (and inexpensiveness) of eco-therapy.
Now, not everyone has 160-acre farms to roll around on day to day, and time's a-wastin', but seriously, maybe skip brunch with the girls and get yourself (and them) out on the range - somewhere, anywhere - for a visit to the eco-shrink. A few weekends ago, I went on my first hike in a long time - too long - and mid-way, I parked myself on a log at the foot of a waterfall and "communed" for about half an hour.
I still haven't been billed for it.
Jenifer Morgan
Senior Editor
http://www.IdealBite.com
i always like to chillax with my friends at a park or on a hike