Wilderness Educator, artist and mother Emily van Lidth de Jeude hosts this Outdoor Exploration video series as a way of keeping in touch with nature during the pandemic. Emily and her son explore the roadsides and open park areas near their home and simply share what interests them in the moment from weeds by their front step to veggies in the garden and the adventure of starting a new chicken flock.
This article explains why getting dirty in the garden can be even more beneficial for mental health than previously thought. Antidepressant microbes in soil may increase production of serotonin, a stress reducing hormone in humans. The Mycobacterium vaccae bacterium was tested both by injection and ingestion on rats, and the results were increased cognitive ability, lower stress and better concentration on tasks than a control group. Includes links to original research.
This clip from Gardening Australia has presenter Sophie Thomson visiting Upper Sturt Primary school where the bush is their classroom. Gives examples of experiential learning in practice and the health benefits for children (and adults) of bringing learning outdoors in nature.
Length: 5m : 35s