Nature Wellness Education

For this site, Nature Wellness Education refers to learning about the various health and wellness benefits of the natural world. It's about how visiting the outside world is healthy and a good idea for all of us, adults and children alike, especially in our fast-paced, technologically-wired, media-obsessed world. It does not refer to learning about such things as animal and plant species or organic foods. If the natural world is what you're into, stay and read on. You may learn some more great ways that nature can benefit your overall health.

With degrees and background experience in the fields of Social Psychology and Community Health Education, I have decided to combine my knowledge and passions in this site. In addition to sharing my art and unique crafts, mostly inspired by nature, I also want to provide information about the many ways nature and creativity are so important to overall health. Being immersed in nature has positive effects on our immune systems, our brain functioning, and our physical and emotional well-being.  Being around nature is a great stress-reliever, as is being more creative, which I discuss in another section under the Wellness Education heading.

Below are some great resources for learning more about this new global interest in the many health benefits of nature. These books can help you learn more about such interesting ideas as "forest bathing," which originated in Japan and has to do with un-wiring and immersing oneself in nature for its multitude of benefits. The idea is finally making strides in America and is behind the campaign known as www.DiscovertheForest.org. Another great site that delves into the epidemic problem of children not spending enough time outdoors is www.Childrenandnature.org. Definitely two great sites worth checking out!