Feeling tired, grumpy or just plain bored? You might need a dose of the good old great outdoors.
Council’s Landcare Coordinator Emma Patyus says there’s no need for scientific studies to tell us the benefits of spending time in nature.
“There is such a thing as Nature Deficit Disorder – it’s in no way a clinical term but suggests that all of us, especially kids, are spending far too much time indoors glued to TV, laptop and iPad screens, rather than choosing to step outside,” she said.
“All this time consumed with sedentary housebound activities results in feelings of alienation from nature, which can lead to negative moods, reduced attention span - not to mention the inevitable decline in fitness brought about by a lack of physical activity.”
Emma said that taking in nature’s splendour could be calming, and offered a chance to reflect and reconnect.
“It’s as simple as making the time to step outside, feel the sunshine warm your skin and take in the fresh air. And really, why wouldn’t you want to spend time in the great outdoors if Eurobodalla is your home?” she said.
“The region is brimming with readily accessible natural areas for all to enjoy. Here there are countless ways to bring nature back into your life and summer is the time when the outdoors beckons.”
If the draw of Eurobodalla’s long stretches of deserted beaches, placid waterways, abundant wildlife and pristine hinterland isn’t enticing enough to get the family up off the couch, Emma has lots of other creative ideas to get everyone outside.
“Many of the best adventures come free – they are the beaches waiting to be walked upon, the trees that we lay under, the fragrance of a flower and the sharing of a meal fresh from the garden,” she said.
“Some simple family activities to consider doing to make sure you get your daily dose of nature include a rock ramble, making a bee hotel, gardening or planting some herbs, or erecting a bird feeder.
“While the whale watching season is almost at an end now is a good time to maybe spot a glimpse of a mother and calf from one of the many beautiful lookouts along our coastline or you could wander the several kilometres of walking paths at the beautiful Eurobodalla Regional Botanic Gardens.
“From the ocean to the mountains, there are a multitude of walks, rides and other adventures waiting to be had and most of the best adventures come free. Nature rewards you with improved mental and physical health, it’s free to explore, it’s easily accessible in Eurobodalla, so why not get out there and make the most of it!”
Above: Get outdoors and into nature. Pictured is Bingie Bingie Point.
