Nature is Good Medicine is contributed by Ellen Liu Kellor, Owner of Age-Well LLC, and is published in the Fall/Winter, 2024 Edition of Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine.
Nature is Good Medicine. This wisdom is reflected in many cultures and is now recognized by science. Fresh air, water, sunshine, and green foliage are all core elements for sustaining life and maximizing wellness.
What if we shifted to consider prescribing nature as often as pharmaceuticals?
“Forest Bathing,” attributed to the Japanese cultural practice of spending time in nature for well-being, has become widely embraced as therapeutic for wellness. The field of “Ecotherapy” is recognized in healthcare. Engaging with nature is a healthful and beneficial practice regardless of culture or age.
Changes in Health and Logistics
As we age, changes in health and logistics, like transportation or where we live and receive care, can affect access to nature. Some seniors do not go out much beyond medical appointments and the grocery store.
Planning for Nature
A little planning and support can remove many barriers to getting outside. Although it may not always be as simple as hopping in the car and driving to the beach on a whim, you can make a plan with a family member, friend, or caregiver to drive together, join a senior center or assisted living outing, visit a park, take a walk or scenic adventure, or get outside on the front porch or backyard regularly. Breathe some fresh air, listen to the birdsong, and observe the changing seasons, patterns of light, and plant life to benefit from nature’s abundant gifts.
Bringing Nature Indoors
We can also get creative in bringing nature indoors. I want to provide a few thoughts and inspiration to build on, starting with the basics…
- Open the windows and curtains regularly to bring fresh air, oxygen, and light into your indoor space. Let your environment breathe to exchange some of the stale air, dust, and chemicals from household or healthcare products, pathogens, and odors for a daily refresh.
- A natural rhythm of daylight is critical to regulating sleep/awake cycles and mood. This is important for those living with dementia as well. Indoors, you can control the lighting schedules and quality to more closely mimic nature and provide some associated benefits.
- Living plants in your environment provide fresh oxygen and life. Science shows that green colors provide a calming effect that can lower stress and blood pressure! Small terrariums, window boxes, or aquariums offer an engaging microcosm of nature. Never underestimate the power of a fresh bouquet to bring some Joy!
Natural Imagery
Natural Imagery can be in the form of artwork, books, videos, and audio recordings. Nature visualization can be a positive and accessible activity wherever one happens to be. Rather than turn on the news, why not try a calming nature video or enjoy the sounds of birdsong or beach waves to engage the senses?
Aromatherapy using natural scents, fresh plants, and teas (not synthetic chemicals) can offer health benefits. Calming rose, lavender, or invigorating citrus and cedar can inspire pleasant memories, affect mood and energy levels, and bring nature indoors.
Your home can become a nature sanctuary that offers daily benefits to your health and wellness. The abundance of the great outdoors awaits you and is truly Good Medicine.
Ellen Liu Kellor, MSW
Elder Care & Lifestyles Consultant
Geriatric Care Manager & Gerontologist
Age-Well LLC
360-734-3064
www.age-well.com
