by Daniel Fink, MD, Chair, The Quiet Coalition
Scottish physicians on the Shetland Islands are going to start prescribing birdwatching, rambling, and beach walks to treat chronic and debilitating illnesses.
Being outdoors is good for one’s health and exercise is good for one’s health. As this recent article in JAMA shows, green spaces improve mental health, too.
And being outdoors is probably good for auditory health. As shown by the National Park Service noise map, without human intervention nature is very quiet.
One really doesn’t need any special equipment to enjoy the outdoors. Perhaps a hat, a long-sleeved shirt or a sweatshirt or jacket if it’s sunny or cool, and comfortable shoes.
We should all spend more time enjoying nature, while it’s still here to enjoy.
