Environmental Wellness

  When I envision Environmental Wellness I’m drawn to the book ‘Spontaneous Happiness”, by Dr Andrew Weil. In this book he refers to research Richard Louv has accomplished (and written about in his book – Last Child in the Woods) on Nature Deficit Disorder (NDD), a term coined to explain how our disconnect with nature is affecting today's children. Mr. Louv claims there are a wide range of behavioral problems in children, but also emotional and physical ailments in adults who don’t spend enough time outdoors. Scientific evidence is showing that a few of the benefits of spending time in nature include; vitamin D, eye health, and even helping with regular sleep patterns. In addition, there are emotional benefits to spending time outdoors enjoying nature’s beauty…smelling the roses.

  I would add one more piece of the puzzle when it comes to Environmental Wellness, and that is your immediate environment; that place you spend a lot of your time. These may include your home, office, and/or car. If you are surrounded by clutter and chaos, this may be playing a role in your productivity, while limiting your inspiration.

  Environmental Wellness is about enjoying the beauty of nature, as well as the beauty of our environment - those places we spend our time. It is about taking the time to smell the roses; knowing you have that time because you have created an environment of organization.

oI live in harmony with nature and the universe.

oI recognize my impact on the environment and take deliberate action to minimize my impact.

oI try to create an environment that minimizes my stress.

oI beautify those parts of my environment under my control.