Hey there, did you know that nature deficit disorder is an actual thing? Many of us crave time outdoors, and science is beginning to show us why: Spending even a brief time in nature is a simple way to detox your mental outlook, ease stress, and boost creativity.

In fact, a study involving 11,000+ adults showed that those who lived more than 1 km (0.6 mi) away from green space were 42 percent more likely to report high stress levels. They also had the worst scores on evaluations of general health, vitality, and mental health.
You don’t need to immerse yourself in miles of untouched wilderness to reap the benefits of nature. Find a park near your home or workplace and make a point of visiting it. As little as 20 minutes in a green space can restore your tired brain and promote happiness!
As you probably know by now, each week of alive’s 12 Months of Wellness focuses on one mini goal as a stepping stone toward the bigger monthly objective. You’ll find the weekly focuses with key tips below. You can also download, screenshot, or print out our PDF calendar with daily to-dos.

May 30-June 5: Bring nature inside

• Help purify your air and get some beautiful indoor greenery with houseplants.
• When possible, let natural light into your home and open the windows for fresh air.
• Decorate with natural elements, such as pinecones, crystals, or acorns.

June 6-12: Get outside every day

• Research, and explore, local parks and trails near you.
• Invest in some clothes for your local weather, such as good raingear.
• Eat outside when possible, like a picnic lunch!

June 13-19: Follow the seasons

• Pick a tree and watch it slowly change all year, documenting it with photography, drawing, or painting.
• Visit your farmers’ market and shop for local, seasonal foods to cook with.
• Learn about, and keep track of, the cycles of the moon.

June 20-26: Plant a garden

• Grow a small herb garden for your kitchen.
• If you have no yard, consider a balcony container garden or community garden plot.
• Learn how to save seeds.

June 27-July 3: Learn to identify local species

• Try an online tool to help you identify local plants and animals.
• Consider birding.
• Learn how to safely and sustainably forage for certain plants, like berries and herbs