We are social beings.  We like to be around other people.  It is good for our health and it is known that people who socialize live longer.  There are many places in which we interact with out friends and family and one of the best places is in the great outdoors.

The article in the Dec. 28 issue of the Wall Street Journal, “Making 2011 The Year of Great Relationships” by Elizabeth Bernstein indicates that being outdoors relieves stress.  We know that access to nature helps us heal sooner, so, why not enjoy that next conversation outside.  Combining the healing powers of nature with a walk in the park, a bike ride or even a sleigh ride in the snow will make us feel better overall.

Roger Ulrich, Ph.D. has defined nature as a ‘positive distraction’.  Nature has the ability to help us focus and can improve our concentration.  We can help reduce the distractions by turning off the cell phone, i-pod and other electronic devices.  The sounds of nature will produce the soundtrack for the social break.  Spending more time outdoors with others in 2011 will be one the best things we can do to begin the new year.

A link to the article can be found at: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203731004576045721718177728.html?KEYWORDS=making+2011+the+year+of+great+relationships