Richard Louv coined the expression ‘nature deficit disorder’ (NDD) in his 2005 book about the detrimental effects on children of spending too much time indoors in front of screens. He associates the lack of nature in the lives of today’s wired generation to disturbing childhood trends: obesity, attention disorders, depression. Now we’ve learned adults too can suffer NDD, caused by insufficient fresh air and evidenced in feeling ennui.
Unlike seasonal affective disorder that occurs primarily from lack of sunlight and vitamin D deficiency, NDD can take hold at any time of year — though the onset of winter tends to make people cocoon indoors, a temptation to resist. Because reports claim experiencing nature makes us happier and healthier.
The pandemic lockdown elevated my appreciation of nature. I not only went for daily walks but also practiced forest bathing and read outdoors rather than at home, in a café or at the Library. As well, walking and talking with friends plus dining on a couple’s patio helped satisfy my essential quota of both nature and sociability. In fact whenever I put nature to a test by abstaining for a day or two, my mood turns pale blue.
According to an article in Psychology Today, “we know exercise is good… exercise in nature is good, but the [positive] effect applies even if you spend time in nature for relaxation.” Fortunately cities and towns now take nature into account in their plans. Parks, community gardens, benches, exercise stations, greenways: all entice us to get outside. The other day I chatted with a friend who was seated on an outdoor bench, her “office”, dealing with paperwork. That’s a healthy workplace! And apparently people who are unable to go outdoors, for whatever reason, can improve their quality of life and cognition simply by viewing nature through windows: seeing the seasons, absorbing natural light, watching birds and plants.
A recent study says 120 minutes a week in nature suffices to reap its rewards. But more is better. Perhaps Oscar Wilde’s witticism applies to communing with nature: “Everything in moderation, including moderation”. •
Linda Richardson says
Another very interesting topic Pam. I haven’t heard this term used before but have read articles about how too much screen time can affect children. I hadn’t thought about it in terms of adults but it makes perfect sense. I make a point of getting outside and walking or hiking each day but will have to find a nice bench upon which to sit and read a book.
Pam McPhail says
Linda, Your spacious balcony offers a restful view of nature with a meandering channel of water, trees, birds and more. I know you benefit from this feature of your home, year-round.
Linda Richardson says
Absolutely Pam! Rick and I are very grateful for our balcony and particularly the fact that it has a full roof overhang so we can enjoy it even when it is raining.
Catherine McCallum says
This makes perfect sense. Pam. I have found, since I retired to BC, my mood darkens as the cloudiness rolls in for what is a typical Okanagen winter. I have to make a concerted effort to get outside daily and resist the urge to snuggle under a blanket in my easy chair reading the day away. If I don’t, I start feeling blue and I am unable to account for my down periods until I recognize the source. Luckily my dog helps me by forcing me to take daily walks down to the lake.
Pam McPhail says
Even though reading a day away sounds lovely, you’ve realized the need for nature, Cathy, in balancing your mood. The pandemic awakened me to this necessity.
Ian says
Pam, your inspiring post comes at just the right time, as the skies darken and the rain falls down incessantly. You are right: getting outdoors is the key and, instead of the usual self-improvement projects, I am going to contemplate spending more time enjoying nature. I will try less TV and Internet time, and more hours walking in the woods and along the seashore! Thanks for the inspiration!
Pam McPhail says
Ian, Although I prefer showers to a downpour, getting damp rather than drenched, I’ve developed a new appreciation for walking in the rain to fulfil my daily quota of nature. That’s what we wet coasters must do!
Marie McLean says
I’m with you with this. Ken and I have always enjoyed walking in the nearby woods but even more so during the pandemic. When I broke my foot (dancing) and then later wrenched my knee (skiing), each time I couldn’t walk outdoors for a number of weeks. That was hard. Even a few seconds makes a difference. When I couldn’t even walk on our slippery porch to take out recycling and garbage to our bins (a matter of a few feet), I couldn’t believe how deprived I felt.
Pam McPhail says
Thanks, Marie, for outlining your dependency on nature. It’s a healthy addiction to have.
Janet Anderson says
I enjoyed the article and agree with the comments expressed.
Having recently pulled my achilles the short walks aren’t nearly as satisfying as my runs.
In any event, with winter approaching I will continue to step outside as my closet is full of clothes for all seasons!
Pam McPhail says
Yes, Janet, dressing appropriately is key to enjoying all seasons. I shiver to think of my high school years in frigid Edmonton when I sometimes privileged fashion over warmth.
Barbara says
Very true. I’m looking forward to my first winter away from snow and ice to be able to enjoy an outside daily walk.
Pam McPhail says
You may want to recall the song “raindrops keep falling on my head…” on your winter walks, Barb. This upbeat tune helps ensure we don’t complain about wet weather.