A Penny For Your Books

“Touch grass” is a popular saying in recent times. It is typically used when someone has said or done something so out of touch, that they have no concept of how the real world works or how real people think. Although this can be used in any context, it is particularly commonly used for and by young people who are chronically online. So, what are the actual benefits of taking time to be outside, and to “touch grass”, and what can this look like?

First, being outside and off of screens has well-known benefits for those who partake. Harvard professor Heather Eliassen is quoted throughout the article Time spent in nature can boost physical and mental well-being on a wide range of benefits from spending time outside. She reports that time spent outside in green spaces promotes better sleep, less anxiety, lower blood pressure, and exercise, among other perks.

Studies show that being outside can positively impact your health in what seems like every way–physical health, mental health, spiritual health, and community health. For a digestible summary of findings, check out Nurtured by nature by Kirsten Weir, published on the American Psychological Association’s website. Essentially, being outside can help to reset your cognitive capabilities, your circadian clock, and help you connect to the world you live in. It’s an important reminder that in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there is always something more important.

As much as I enjoy spending time outside, I haven’t been doing as much of it as I should be. Even though I am incredibly excited and happy with my life right now, there’s so much to worry about. Even outside of my own struggles finding a new job and starting a new school program, there are genuine, horrific humanitarian crises that every person should be aware of and do their part to spread awareness. Being invested in these disasters takes a toll, but I believe it is my responsibility as a privileged person to remain aware, speak up, and do what I can to help. In order to keep myself in the headspace to do this, I know that I must take care of myself.

Some research mentioned in Weir’s article indicates that this time spent outside in green or blue (water) spaces can also increase empathy and cooperation, which is a huge part of what the world needs. There is a plethora of research out there on how community is important for mental health as well. Being involved in something important to you can raise your sense of belonging, support, and purpose.

So, go to an outdoor protest. Make your social media post from a park. Donate your time or your money or your voice to what really matters. Spend time outside, increase your well-being, increase your empathy, and then do what you can to find a purpose and push towards it with like-minded people to make the world a better place.

For me, this means: fuck Trump, fuck ICE, fuck genocide, free Palestine, support local businesses and libraries, support marginalized groups, support all gender identities and queer folk, protect the dolls, and no one is illegal on stolen land, to say a few.