Our Connection to Nature!
Over the past week, I have been discovering the benefits of nature-based play for children. One of the most impactful insights I have learned about the benefits of nature is the scientific evidence about how humans are inherently connected to nature. Through reading, Mindfulness & Nature-Based Therapeutic Techniques for Children by Cheryl Fisher, I have learned about nature and the brain-body connection. One interesting fact about the brain-body connection and nature is that as we walk through a forest, swim in an ocean, and roll down the grass we are inhaling and absorbing biochemicals released by trees, water, plants, and soil. These biochemicals trigger our body to release neurotransmitters such as serotonin and endorphins, which are linked to producing feelings of happiness and well-being. As I reflect on my personal experiences with nature, I am provided with examples of how going for a run in the valley near my home and swimming in the lake at the cottage creates a sense of happiness for me.
Learning about the brain and body connection and its relationship with nature, I was inspired to create a weekly nature craft content for the Larchwood Nature OT Instagram. I wanted to create social media posts that would encourage children and their parents to get out and explore how nature can be used as an inspiration to create unique and fun art and projects. These crafts will also help to develop fine and gross motor skills, sensory processing, visual scanning, planning and organization skills, creativity, and more! As I have been working on this, I have been challenging my creativity by going on adventures walking through nature to spark new ideas. I wanted to ensure that these crafts are engaging and fun because as a future occupational therapist I want to enable people to participate in occupations that are meaningful to them. I hope that these crafts provide an outlet to connect to nature and can be adapted and personalized to make these activities more meaningful to engage in! Check out the Larchwood Nature OT Instagram page each week for the weekly craft content!
