Scientists believe that human beings were designed for a different type of world than the one in which we live. They believe our bodies function most effectively when we live in a world of movement, nature, and short bursts of energy. Unfortunately, we now live in a world that encourages us to sit still—sit still to learn in school, sit still to work at a desk, sit still to play a video game, sit still in our cars to get from one place to another. Overall, movement has decreased exponentially from the hunter-gatherer or farmer days.

We also find ourselves interacting less with nature. In fact, some suggest that children spend less time outside than an average prisoner. And rather than enduring short bursts of energy in response to life stressors, we endure the constant stress of noise, air, and light pollution as well workplace stressors, school demands, social media expectations, and traffic. We live with the physical stresses of pesticides and overly processed foods. Unfortunately, these stressors do not subside. They do not come and go. They keep coming. They add pressure to pressure and stress to stress. As a result, they have a negative effect on our healthy immunity, cognition, and physical health.

What can we do to escape this modern trap and build a healthier life for ourselves and our families? I offer two simple suggestions for a start. They require an investment of time, but they also offer tremendous benefits.

• Strengthen your connection with nature. Take time to get outside every day. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. Take in the cool breeze of fall. Draw in the aroma of spring flowers. Feel the sting of the chilly air of winter on your face. Look around you. See the trees…and the birds that flit from tree to tree. Follow the squirrel as he runs across the branches. Listen to the song of the birds as they harmonize with the rustling of the leaves in the wind. Feel the grass. Step into the stream. Lay down on your lawn and watch the clouds go by. Watch the sunset or sunrise. You get the idea. Connect with nature. Even if it’s simply going to the park for a walk among the green plants or along a pond.
• Get active. You don’t have to run a marathon, or even a half-marathon. Just turn off the gaming device, walk away from the TV, and go for a walk. Grab your spouse or your family and go for a walk together. Make it an even greater joy by going for a walk in the park or along a stream. There are many ways to get active. Work in your yard. Ride your bike to the store. Play catch with your children or a friend. Go dancing. Whatever you do, get active. We were made for movement.

As I said, these suggestions take time. They require that we “slow down,” step off the train of productivity for a moment and take time for our health and well-being. Ironically, we will not only feel better, but we will also accomplish more as well. As an added benefit, our families will grow healthier and happier as well. Sound good? It does to me!