Overcoming Nature Deficit Disorder

By Murray Mackenzie

Most of us have heard the term, nature deficit disorder (NDD) a concept coined by American author Richard Louv in his 2005 book, “Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder” to describe the human costs of alienation from nature.

It is well documented that since the digital revolution of the 1990s, which coincided with an increase in overly structured childhoods, we are spending considerably less time outdoors and becoming less connected to our natural environments. Consequences of drastically diminished time in nature include a dulling of our physical senses and ability to attend, reduced creativity and problem solving and a generalized decline in mental well being which can manifest as anxiety or depression.

Conversely, spending time in nature has a calming effect, lowering stress hormones and promoting relaxation. Exposure to nature can also restore directed attention and reduce mental fatigue. There is also evidence that sharing outdoor experiences can strengthen our family and community bonds.

Overcoming Nature Deficit Disorder requires a conscious effort to reintegrate nature into daily life for both children and adults:

1. Make Nature a Daily Habit

Even a ten minute walk in a park or along a tree-lined street can boost your mood and decrease stress. Starting your day outdoors, even if it’s just to have your morning cup of tea can help set your circadian rhythm. Consider taking lunch outdoors if you’ve been working indoors all morning.

2. Engage your Senses in nature

Schedule mindful or “awe” walks where you actively attune your senses and attention to the sights, sounds and smells in nature. You may wish to enhance the experience by doing some of your walk barefoot.

3. Bring Nature Indoors

Sharing your home our workspace with house plants improves air quality and provides a visual connection to nature. Maximize natural light in your living and workspace and incorporate natural materials such as wood and stone in the décor.

4. Engage In Nature-Based activities  

The mental and physical benefits of gardening are well known. The act of nurturing plants is therapeutic and rewarding. Exploring local trails, greenways or parks offers both physical exercise and immersion in nature. Take opportunities away from the city lights to stargaze on clear nights, marveling at the universe unfolding above you. Become more attuned to bird life - you'll find that it's fascinating and all around you.

5. Consciously replace screen time with outdoor time

If you have children, lead by example: they are more likely to spend time outdoors when they see adults doing the same