Reconnect With Nature: The Touch Grass Challenge

Introduction to Touch Grass Challenge

Welcome to the summer challenge that invites you to step away from screens and reconnect with the outdoors. This initiative encourages you to ‘touch grass’, which means putting down your phone and engaging with the real world. Every week in June, we’ll provide you with an evidence-based exercise aimed at promoting your health and well-being.

Understanding Ultraprocessed Time

Dr. John La Puma, internist and author of “Indoor Epidemic,” refers to time spent on phones as ‘ultraprocessed time’. Similar to ultraprocessed food, this period offers convenience and stimulation but lacks nourishment. The challenge is to reduce this time and enrich your life by adding nature’s ‘greens’.

Benefits of Nature

Research shows that spending time outdoors, even for brief periods, has various health benefits. These include reduced stress, improved mood, and enhanced focus and memory. A landmark study involving nearly 20,000 participants revealed that 120 minutes spent in nature each week significantly boosted health and well-being.

Week 1 Exercise: Swap in Green Time

Your task is to spend 20 minutes daily in nature throughout June. You can spend time in a small park or under street trees. The key is finding a slot in your schedule to enjoy these moments without interruptions.

Schedule Your Green Time

Manoush Zomorodi, author of “Body Electric: The Hidden Health Costs of the Digital Age and New Science to Reclaim Your Well-Being,” advises checking your calendar each morning to find available times. A walk noticing ivy on walls or a dandelion breaking through pavement can be refreshing.

Tracking Your Device Usage

If you’re struggling to find 20 minutes, assess your phone usage. The results might surprise you and reveal ample opportunity for nature time. Experts recommend leaving your phone behind when heading out for maximum benefits.

Experience Nature’s Soft Fascination

Stepping outside without electronic devices can offer a mental reset. Marc Berman, from the University of Chicago, notes that nature draws attention without exhausting you, letting you observe tree leaves or water flow. This experience encourages reflection and reduces stress.

Encouragement to Participate

Embrace these moments outside and explore your senses—feel the wind or watch clouds drift. Maintaining this habit throughout June can make you feel better physically and mentally. Share your experiences and thoughts about the challenge in the comments.

Conclusion

Join Well’s summer challenge by dedicating 20 minutes daily to escaping screens and exploring the outdoors. As summer begins, tune into nature and cultivate a healthier lifestyle. Get outside, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being.