A PLACE TO REST: 'Why resort to nature?'

(The Christophers) - The value of nature as a gift of healing is the theme of the reflection, "Why resort to nature?", from the Christophers Three Minutes a Day: It's Better To Light One Candle Than To Curse The Darkness.

Why resort to nature? Because enjoying nature - earth, sky, weather, water, plants, trees, animals and birds - is healing. Employees with window views of nature had less job stress and better overall well-being. Breast cancer patients who watched birds or walked in a park for half-an-hour three times a week had better quality of life ratings. Symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were reduced after children had enjoyed afternoon or weekend time outdoors. A study by Deakin University in Australia, found that "parks are a fundamental health resource, particularly in terms of disease prevention." Blood pressure, stress levels and cholesterol decreased; outlook on life increased. Go for a walk. Watch a bird's flight. Enjoy a sunrise or sunset. Delight in a dog or a squirrel's antics. Relish nature. O lord, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom you have made them all. (Psalm 104:24) Help us, divine physician, to find delight and healing in the works of your hands.

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This reflection from Three Minutes a Day:It’s Better To Light One Candle Than To Curse The Darkness was made available to Catholic Online by permission of the Christophers, a nonprofit organization that uses print, broadcast, and electronic media to encourage people of all ages, and from all walks of life, to use their God-given talents to make a positive difference in the world. (www.christophers.org).