Chapter 1: Embracing Nature for Wellness

Many of us yearn to spend more time outdoors, but we often question if we are truly benefiting from our time in nature. A new tool called NatureQuant can assist in both assessing our natural environment and encouraging outdoor engagement.

The NatureScore feature of NatureQuant evaluates how much nature is accessible to you based on your location. By simply entering an address, the algorithm analyzes various elements such as air quality, noise levels, tree cover, and proximity to parks or bodies of water.

I tried entering several former addresses into the system. One location, in the Washington Heights area of Manhattan, received a low score of 23.1, labeled as "nature light." The commentary revealed a “moderate to low density of health-supporting natural elements,” which explains my frequent stress and poor sleep during my time there.

In contrast, my current home in Maine, close to a picturesque pond and rich marshland, boasts a remarkable score of 98.3, described as a “nature utopia.” The commentary celebrates the abundance of beneficial natural elements and opportunities for exposure to nature. Each morning, as I witness the sunrise over the pond, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to live in such a vibrant environment. After relocating, my partner and I felt inspired to create Basin Pond Outdoors, providing opportunities for others to paddle, ski, and bike in this stunning locale. NatureQuant's classification of our surroundings validates our feelings about this special place.

You might think improving your nature score is unattainable, but NatureQuant’s second feature, NatureDose, can help. This app tracks your outdoor time in quality natural settings, offering insights into your current nature exposure and enabling you to set achievable goals. For example, opting for walks in a park instead of the gym can enhance your nature score, likely benefiting your overall health. NatureQuant cites over 300 studies involving more than 300 million people, demonstrating that increased nature exposure correlates with improved health span and longevity. In essence, these findings confirm that spending time in nature can lead to a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Chapter 2: The Future of Nature and Health

As NatureQuant forges partnerships with health insurance providers and integrates with other health and fitness applications, exciting advancements are on the horizon. The NatureScore not only quantifies “time in nature” but also emphasizes its importance for disease prevention and therapeutic benefits, aiding governments and corporations in recognizing nature's value.

What is the nature score in your area? How can you increase your weekly nature dose? Consider how you might use NatureScore and NatureDose to plan your next getaway or summer vacation.

Boost Your Health by Aligning with Nature's Rhythms: Sunlight, Seasons & Circadian Balance - YouTube

Discover how aligning with nature can improve your health and well-being through sunlight exposure and seasonal changes.

5 Science-Backed Tips For Better Health This Year | Shawn Stevenson - YouTube

Learn practical, research-backed strategies for enhancing your health and well-being in the upcoming year.

Read more about The New Outdoors Movement:

The New Outdoors Movement

What it is; plus a list of essential resources

Take It Outdoors — Getting Back on the Healthy Side of the Door

An Outdoors Manifesto — Part 2

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