While it is easy to find anecdotal evidence all by yourself, there is plenty of research to back the notion that being in nature is a good idea. One article specifies five benefits. 

 

 

Those are pretty impressive achievements, all worth the time and effort to step outside. Doing it with someone you love is better still. 

 

When we lived in Florida, our mail box was a block away from the house. I remember one time being in a peckish mood, and slamming the door on the way to fetch the mail. Even that brief stroll through the trees calmed me, until I was at peace by the time I got back home with bills in my hands. 

 

For the last year I have taken a few walks a week. Women who know I need a nudge meet me and encourage me to go a bit further each time. Nature steps in with her magic and reminds me that there is more to consider than laundry and email. Coming back inside is like stepping back through the wardrobe from Narnia. 

 

Two of our adult children and their spouses traveled to New Zealand a few years back. The pictures are amazing, and their descriptions of the beauty there were effusive. They visited the landscape of The Hobbit movie, and ate at The Green Dragon. There was no need to look for a golden ring, since they already have them.