As the light begins to fade, so do our memories of lush green gardens and the feeling of sun on our skin. Modern life demands hours rooted in front of computer screens, with nothing but the blue light of monitors, a wilting spider plant and an energy saving light bulb for company. On a particularly grey day, winter skies are reflected in the concrete of the city and it becomes impossible to discern any hints of green beyond the piles of decomposing leaves. But fear not, nature hasn’t abandoned us! We just need to look a little harder…
Although it is not a recognised medical condition, Nature Deficit Disorder is arguably a symptom of our current lifestyle. Richard Louv first explored the concept in his 2005 release ‘Last Child in the Woods’ and it seems to be resurfacing alongside the fads of Hygge and living more Danishly. Whilst it’s perfectly natural to want to cosy down during the winter months with fluffy socks and an open fire, the real issue here is that our existence is no longer in sync with the natural world. Speaking at the Royal Horticultural Society in October, Dr Ross Cameron of the University of Sheffield argued that, “We’re so clued into modern technology that we’re less observant about the world around us and we’re more likely to learn about wildlife from a David Attenborough programme than maybe from a walk in the woods”.
This indoor sedentary lifestyle is thought to have negative consequences for our concentration spans, mental health and wellbeing and sets a poor standard for future generations. It is important that we maintain a connection to the natural world, just taking the time to watch the seasons change or listening to bird song provides us with the opportunity to slow down and take a breath. Failing to do so will lead to a disconnection and alienation from nature and this in turn will leave us more vulnerable to negative moods. It would seem that fresh air really does do us the world of good! Although society may be drifting away from nature at least we can find some comfort in the fact that Planet Earth II is attracting more 16-34 year old viewers than the X Factor!
