“Then God surveyed everything He had made, savoring its beauty and appreciating its goodness.” Genesis 1:31 VOICE

“Be honest: How much time do you spend staring at a screen each day? For most Americans, that number clocks in at more than 10 hours, according to a 2016 Nielsen Total Audience Report. Our increasing reliance on technology, combined with a global trend toward urban living, means many of us are spending even less time outdoors—even as scientists compile evidence of the value of getting out into the natural world.”

–Kirsten Weir, American Psychological Association

How did you feel reading that statistic? Did it surprise you, or did you nod your head in agreement? It’s crazy when you think about how much time we spend devoted to looking at a screen and today I stopped and wondered, “Is that really how God wants it to be?” 

Now, I understand that many jobs require hours working on a computer and please hear me out, that’s not a bad thing (and I am certainly not condemning anyone because I need computers to do my job as a writer too!). Technology and computers are not necessarily horrible. But I do believe that God, in His amazing prolific way, created nature to be restorative and healthy for our minds. A computer screen can’t do that, the way that God can.

The Creator wants us to spend time in His creation. 

God wants us to spend time slowing down, within His creation, so that He can use His creation to minister to us! I find that the times where God speaks the most clearly to me are when I’m able to clear my mind in some fresh air and just listen to the wonder around me. The birds sing His praises, the wind ushers in new seasons, the trees point their branches towards the heavens. All of it echoes His glory and splendor, who am I to ignore those beautiful reminders?

I live in Minnesota, so I know there are some days where it is absolutely unbearable to be outside. But, because I want my daughter to grow up with memories of exploring sticks and rocks in our backyard (instead of hours on her tablet) we go outside all winter. She toddles around shoveled pathways, trying to awkwardly find her balance while wearing snow pants and boots that are far too big for her.

But she’s smiling. She’s breathing fresh air. Her mind is being restored.

And in return, Momma is smiling. She’s breathing fresh air. Her mind is being restored.

There are many, many studies and research articles that point to the benefit of being outside. I’ll let you dig some of those up yourself, but I did want to bring you this beautiful reminder: being outside, within God’s creation, will help you in your journey of mental healing. 

Don’t discount it. Seek it out. 

Find time everyday to go for a walk, a swim, a bike ride or whatever other outside activity you choose. Watch it add wonder and gratefulness to your life. Watch it add new dimensions of awe as you think about how your Heavenly Father painted another beautiful sunset and handcrafted snowflakes.

Watch the Creator use His creation to heal you.

Reflection Time:

Spend at least 10 minutes outside today breathing in fresh air, chatting with the Creator and asking Him for ways that you can recognize more of His glory within creation.

Here are a few resources for you that can help in your quest to be intentional about getting outside:

• 52 Hike Challenge–one hike per week! That’s a very doable goal!
• 100 Hours Unplugged–set down that phone and get outside with your kiddos!
• 1000 Hours Outside–a great website and app that helps you track how many hours outside you’re getting! If you’re motivated by challenges, badges etc. then this is for you!

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