Nature and health: why getting outside is good for you
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On average, Americans spend less time outside than they once did. Where outdoor recreation was once a leisure-time staple, modern-day technology has given us access to an abundance of activities that draw us indoors. What we’re missing by staying inside may be more than just a glimpse at the surrounding landscape. Research has suggested that there may be a link between our connection with nature and our overall happiness.
In their article published in the journal Environment and Behavior , John Zelenski and Elizabeth Nisbet examined what they call “nature relatedness”: a value determined by study participants’ statements of how strongly they agree with questions such as “My relationship to nature is an important part of who I am.” By comparing a person’s nature relatedness to her happiness (scored based on a rating scale), Zelenski and Nisbet came away with results showing a potentially strong tie between the time we spend in a natural environment and how happy we are, even isolated from other happiness-inducers: connection to family, friends, and a home. A second study by the same duo indicated that nature relatedness is a predictor for happiness; in short, if one is highly connected to nature, one is more likely to be happy.
The concept that nature affects our emotional and mental well-being isn’t new. Researchers have been studying the benefits of spending time with nature for decades. A 2013 study connected interacting with a natural environment and a decrease in symptoms of depression, and a 2004 study linked time in “green outdoor settings” to a reduction in ADHD symptoms in children. Hoping to ace that upcoming test? Take a hike. In 2008, researchers at the University of Michigan discovered that participants who walked in nature were able to perform better on subsequent memory-related tasks than their city-strolling counterparts.
If not for your brain, you might consider getting outside for your body. Spending time in a natural setting has been shown to positively affect heart health , weight management , the management of diabetes symptoms , and recovery for stroke victims.
If you need some outdoor inspiration, we’ve collected 10 activity ideas that will take your relationship with nature from detached to devoted:
- Exercise: Run, bike, hike, swim, or attend an outdoor yoga session.
- Photograph: Natural beauty is everywhere. Take pictures of what inspires you, share them with friends, or collect them into a book to enjoy for years to come.
- Visit a local farm: Smell the fresh hay, get your boots muddy, moo at a cow.
- Go on a walking tour: Many cities have foundations that put together paid or self-guided walking tours that allow residents and visitors to explore local architecture or historic landmarks. A quick online search should give you some local options.
- Stargaze: Find constellations, or make up your own.
- Fly a kite: There’s no better way to enjoy a windy day, and we’re betting you haven’t flown a kite in far too long.
- Grow something: It could be flowers, trees, or the perfect food garden. Bask in your creations.
- Camp: Wake up to the sound of birds chirping. If camping isn’t your scene, make a small fire in your backyard, and don’t forget the marshmallows.
- People watch: Lounge at a park alone or with a friend, and take in the world around you. But don’t point. It’s rude.
- Take a nap: We fully support getting active while you’re outside, but on a beautiful day, we certainly wouldn't fault you for laying out a blanket and getting some shut-eye in the shade.
Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming to your surviving family and friends, but pre-planning your funeral service can help them better deal with the stress of losing someone.  Choose the Type of Service You Want Pre-planning your funeral service can not only ease the burden on your loved ones, but it helps ensure your final wishes are honored. While some families struggle with making those final decisions after losing someone, your family won’t have to worry with making those hard choices. Choose what funeral home and director you would like to use to handle your service. Decide what type of service you want (traditional, cremation, donation, etc…). If you choose a traditional service with burial, decide where you want to be buried. Meet with the funeral director and look at your options for caskets and urns. If you decide you want to be buried, choose clothing options. Look at options for a location to hold your service (funeral home, religious facility, sentimental building, graveside). What type of flowers do you want? Do you want flowers, or would you rather donations be given to a particular charity or a charity of one’s choice? Who will be a part of your service? You should decide on pallbearers and even ask them personally. You should also decide who you would like to officiate or participate in your service. Choose which songs you would like played at your service. Write an obituary or make notes about information you would like to be included in your obituary. Choose Who You Want to be in Charge Your family and friends want to take part in the process of fulfilling your final wishes, they only need instructions on what they need to do. Make sure someone, preferably your executor, has a copy of the will. Give a family member or chosen friend a list of important account information that will need to be contacted and handled following your death. Also make sure someone knows your final wishes for your desired service. Designate someone to be your power of attorney. Have someone prepared to cancel basic utility services and subscriptions. Choose To Pay In Advance Making decisions about your funeral service in advance can benefit you and your survivors financially. If possible, pay for all expenses in advance, freeing your family from that financial burden. When possible, pre pay for: Cemetery services, burial plot All funeral arrangements including casket, urn, flowers, transportation and specialized services
Frequently-asked questions and answers about Veterans benefits.
Attending a funeral or memorial service can stir up many emotions, and for some, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: What should I wear? While traditions around funeral attire have evolved, dressing appropriately remains a way to show respect—for the person who has passed and for their loved ones. Whether the service is formal, casual, religious, or a celebration of life, here are a few thoughtful guidelines to help you choose what to wear. 1. Stick to Neutral, Conservative Colors Black is the traditional color of mourning in many cultures, but it's not your only option. Other respectful colors include navy, gray, deep green, brown, and muted tones. Avoid bright colors, loud patterns, or anything that draws unnecessary attention unless the family has requested otherwise. Tip: Some services may invite guests to wear the deceased’s favorite color or dress casually—check the obituary or invitation for guidance. 2. Dress Modestly and Neatly Funeral services are somber occasions, so choose clothing that is clean, pressed, and conservative: For women, options include a modest dress, blouse with slacks, or a skirt paired with a cardigan or blazer. For men, a dress shirt with slacks, a suit, or a sport coat with a tie is appropriate. 3. Footwear Matters, Too Choose closed-toe shoes that are comfortable, especially if you'll be standing or walking at a graveside service. Simple dress shoes, loafers, or flats work well. Avoid athletic sneakers or flip-flops unless the service is explicitly casual or outdoors. 4. Consider the Location and Weather The setting of the service can influence your outfit: For outdoor or graveside services, wear weather-appropriate clothing and shoes that can handle grass or gravel. Bring an umbrella or coat if needed. Dark outerwear is always a safe choice. In a place of worship, modest attire is often expected regardless of the season. 5. Keep Accessories Simple This is not the time for flashy jewelry or bold accessories. Choose understated items that won’t distract from the purpose of the gathering. 6. What About Children? Children should also be dressed neatly and conservatively. Simple outfits in neutral colors are best. If unsure, dress them as if attending a formal family event or church service. 7. When in Doubt, Dress Up a Bit It’s always better to be slightly overdressed than too casual at a funeral. If you’re unsure about the dress code, err on the side of formality. A respectful appearance helps convey sympathy and support. What you wear to a funeral doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive—but it should reflect care, humility, and consideration. Remember: your presence is what matters most
Planning a funeral or cremation—whether for a loved one or preplanning for yourself—can feel overwhelming. There are many decisions to make, all while navigating the emotions that come with loss. But with a little preparation and guidance, the process can be meaningful, healing, and manageable. Whether you're planning ahead or handling arrangements after a loss, this guide walks you through the key steps of planning a funeral or cremation service. 1. Decide Between Burial and Cremation One of the first decisions to make is whether the individual will be buried or cremated. This choice often depends on personal, cultural, or religious preferences. Burial typically involves a casket, a graveside service, and a cemetery plot. Cremation may still include a funeral or memorial service and allows for more flexible options such as scattering, keeping an urn, or burying cremated remains. Some families choose direct cremation (without a service) or direct burial and hold a memorial at a later time. 2. Decide on the Type of Service There are many ways to honor a life, including: Traditional funeral service (usually with the body present) Memorial service (typically after cremation or burial) Celebration of life (a more personalized, informal event) Services can take place at the funeral home, a place of worship or outdoors. Choose what best reflects the person’s life and what brings comfort to those attending. 3. Select the Details You’ll want to personalize the service with details such as: Obituary and newspaper or online notices Casket or urn selection Music, readings, or spiritual elements Photos, videos, or displays of personal items Flowers or charitable donation options Who will speak, perform, or participate Many families also choose to include military honors, religious traditions, or cultural customs. 4. Consider Final Resting Place Options For burials: Choose a cemetery and purchase a plot if one isn’t already owned Decide on a headstone or grave marker For cremation: Decide whether ashes will be kept, scattered, buried, or placed in a niche Some families divide ashes among keepsake urns or jewelry 5. Handle Legal and Practical Matters Don’t forget the necessary paperwork: Obtain a death certificate (you may need multiple copies) Notify Social Security and financial institutions Handle wills, trusts, and estate matters If applicable, coordinate with veterans’ services or insurance providers Funeral directors can help guide you through most of this, but having documents organized in advance can ease the burden. 6. Consider Preplanning Preplanning your own arrangements relieves your loved ones of decision-making during an emotional time. You can: Specify burial or cremation preferences Choose the type of service and location Prepay or set aside funds Record personal touches you’d like included Preplanning ensures your wishes are followed—and it brings peace of mind to everyone involved. While planning a funeral or cremation is never easy, it is an opportunity to reflect, remember, and celebrate a life. Whether you’re planning for the future or coping with a loss today, take each step at your own pace, and don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals or trusted loved ones for support.
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