Nature Deficit Disorder

I have been meaning to blog about this since the OAND convention, but just didn't have the time. Last night I had the privelage of talking the Barrie's Holistic Mom & Dad's group. The discussion was about 'Boosting your Child's Immunity', and I mentioned how many factors are involved in immunity. One of which was 'fresh air'. Getting outside into fresh air and sunlight are so important on many different levels - mood regulation, better sleep, oxygenation and of course immunity.
'Nature deficit disorder' is a term coined by Richard Louv which describes our children's lack of outdoor play, which is responsible for many behavioral disorders that we're now seeing in adolescents. Our children are finding an increased number of indoor activities - television, internet, video games - and are not participating in as many outdoor, unorganized activities as they have in the past. They are disconnected from the environment, and from nature. This is becoming a problem on so many levels for our children, that it's time to make some changes. Encourage kids to walk to school, to play outside, to engage in outdoor sports, and to go 'explore' (within your comfort level). As a family, it's important to engage in these activities together to role model them for your kids - take weekend hikes, go tobogganing, go to the playground, go camping, whatever is in season!
Limit time spent indoors and set guidelines about TV and computer use. The whole family will benefit!

Dr. Anna Falkowski HBSc, ND
Naturopathic Doctor & Clinic Director
Vitality for Life Health Center
www.vitalityforlife.ca

Dr. Anna Falkowski HBSc, ND
Naturopathic Doctor, Clinic Director
info@vitalityforlife.ca
www.vitalityforlife.ca
Twitter: @NaturoDoctor
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