Written by Green Collar and published on https://greencollar.ca/.
The current coronavirus pandemic is affecting virtually everyone in different ways and degrees. One thing is for sure, though, anxiety and fear have increased across the board. Fortunately, there is a proven treatment that is as close as the nearest door to the outside.
Studies have shown that time outdoors helps people manage their fears, anxiety, and stress. This is especially valuable during this period of social isolation and shelter-in-place rules. In fact, it would be hard to overestimate the value of time spent outdoors. Sunshine boosts vitamin D production that helps our bodies function more efficiently while the simple act of being out in the natural world increases serotonin levels, promoting calm and reducing stress.
As social distancing and isolation are beginning to wear on people, it’s heartening to see more and more of them heading outdoors for a variety of activities. On my drive home yesterday I saw people on bikes, playing lacrosse in a field, and cars parked in nature preserves. People are taking advantage of being outdoors and relaxing in ways that only happen when we’re not mired down by work and obligations. Walking down my street, I’m not only seeing kids playing outdoors but their parents outside as well.
How Your Landscape Helps You Manage Anxiety
COVID-19 continues to impact all of us in many different ways.
These aren’t the most relaxing times and, although we are transitioning back to normalcy, we are still not entirely sure when this will be behind us.
Fortunately, support is here for us from friends, family, and one often-overlooked source—as close as your nearest front or back door ????????
Various studies, over decades, have indicated that the time we spend outdoors helps us to manage our fears, anxiety, and stress. This has never been more applicable during long periods of isolation and social distancing.
We know that sunshine increases the production of vitamin D. Findings also prove that the outdoors helps to increase serotonin levels—a proven stress reducer.
As the pandemic continues, it’s comforting to see members of our Hamilton community outdoors; there are more bikes, children and parents playing outdoors, and hiking trails are steady. Ontarians are taking advantage of this downtime and using it to improve upon family relationships and for self-care.
Landscaping is our top-secret trick to fight stress
A gorgeous and well-managed landscape can elevate the therapeutic effects of nature. Our neighbors will be enthusiastic about spending more time outside more often if they genuinely appreciate the scenery around them. We call this your lifescape.
Money might be extra tight right now. We get it. So how can you improve your lifescape without breaking the bank? Take it one step at a time and ENJOY!
Don’t Worry, Be Happy
Some of us have never planted a flower or touched a garden trowel before. But what better time than now? And don’t worry about ‘messing up’—working outdoors is almost always forgiving.
Firstly, try setting some achievable goals that don’t overwhelm you. Then tackling these assignments in a focused way, beginning with a handful of relatively simple tasks, think raking or weeding.
There are quite a few resources on our blog to help you. Just get out there and get your hands dirty!
Look to the Experts When in Doubt
Gardening is excellent therapy for the mind and body by diminishing stress and stimulating physical conditioning.
Also, keep in mind that, as gardeners and landscapers—experts and hobbyists—we’re all in this together. If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed with your project, connect with a local landscaper for some help. Instead of thinking of hiring an expert as an additional expense, please think of us as a valuable resource. We can a) help safeguard and improve your most significant financial asset, b) offer professional advice to manage your landscaping project and budget, and c) help you find your very own lifescape.
Note: social distancing is much more natural when you’re outdoors. We’re also following recommended protocols to keep our team and customers healthy and safe. So let’s all get out there and get some Vitamin D.
Original post here https://promar-international.com/dealing-with-drought-how-farmers-can-adapt-to-deal-with-water-shortages/.
