There is a basic physical need for nature in our lives. But, we don’t have to live in the country to get it. City dwellers sometimes have to work a bit more consciously to get it, however. The why and how of getting nature is as varied and different as fingerprints.

Why: From a physical standpoint, we need the air-cleaning affects of plants (whether indoor or outdoor plants). We get vitamin D from 15 to 20 minutes of direct sunlight each day. Vitamin D, among other things, helps to regulate our moods. Moderate or careful physical activity helps the body fight common illnesses like colds. Literally getting in touch with the Earth can help us sleep and feel better. (Earthing)

Eating fresh produce leads to a healthier and longer life. Some doctors even believe that it can reverse type 2 Diabetes and reduce pain from illness.

There are also psychological benefits as well in exposure to nature. When we nurture something or someone, we are also often nurturing ourselves.  Taking care of houseplants is an example. Touching the soil, pruning and dead-heading plants is also a small way to get in touch with the Earth.  Moreover, container or regular gardening reduces stress and encourages a more active live style.

How: There are a number of ways that a City Dweller can enjoy nature: For physical activity: Walking in the park or local walking trails, container gardening, community garden work, nature photography, bird watching (club/group or not), weekend vacations at state parks for camping or guided nature tours, shopping in produce or farmer’s markets, outdoor sports (team or not), volunteer to pick up trash on roads.

For stress relief: House plants and flowers, décor motif that reflects nature (pictures, colors, textures, fish tanks, computer desktop wallpaper themes, sound machines and or music, LED and/or full spectrum lights) (no CFL’s because they create dirty electricity), grounding or Earthing devices (used correctly), casual bird watching (bird feeders, bird baths, or birdhouse(s) near or on windows or balconies), star gazing on a clear night (where possible), midnight hay rides (or buggy rides) with a loved one in a safe park, cloud-watching, sitting in the morning or evening sun, gym or swimming activity, go to a zoo, volunteer at an animal shelter, enjoy a play or concert in the park, dog walking.

For healthy eating: Stay in touch with nature by eating natural (real) foods.   Eat leafy or fruity salads, smoothies, steamed or sautéed vegetables, and sandwiches on healthy breads with lettuce and tomato. Buy or grow organic or heirloom produce and spices whenever possible. Grow herbs on window sills. Take cooking classes featuring new ways to cook vegetables. Learn to can, dehydrate and store food. Preserve produce longer in the fridge with a vacuum sealer.

There is a number on a sticker that is on most pieces of produce at the store. If the number starts with a 4 (the most common), then that fruit is a pot-luck kind of deal. It could have pesticides, be a GMO product, etc. To be sure that it is certified as organic, that code will start with the number 9. A clearly marked GMO product might start with an 8.

All in all, find ways to enjoy every aspect of nature because it leads to a healthier life. Take a moment to stare out the window, smell freshly mowed lawns, or go barefoot in the park… (some parks, anyway).