by Kiki (Cicak) Caines hen I was growing up, I spent more time in the woods behind Rosehill Elementary school than I did in my house. During the eighties it was normal for kids to play outside all day long coming home only to grab a quick snack. I loved those woods - I had several spots where I could sit for hours and anyone who walked by, sometimes within a few feet, wouldn’t even notice I was there. There was a small meadow where wildflowers grew and I would pick a bouquet for my mother. I would go to that woods no matter the season – snow on the ground and ice in the creek – it didn’t matter. It was peaceful and I could sit for hours daydreaming. One fall afternoon I sat still for so long the cutest little mouse climbed up on my shoe. Nature has a healing effect and so I naturally gravitated to the serenity of being alone with the trees and the birds and just knew it made me happy. I don’t need to tell you that spending time in nature is beneficial to your health - it’s a well-known fact and I won’t bore you with the scientific research. I’m sure that like me, you played outside quite a bit when you were a kid and loved it. And I’m also sure that like me, you spent less and less time outside as you got older. Eventually, getting our mail became our “outdoor” time. We focus on our jobs, our never-ending “to do” list, our barrage of recorded shows to 12 Being outside has many advantages for your health. Photo courtesy of Proven Winners watch – there is always something. It’s too hot, too cold, too wet, and there are bugs outside – it’s more comfortable on our couch or in our bed in our heated or airconditioned house. There is always a reason not to go outside when you are an adult. I personally despise mosquitoes and it seems like whenever I could finally go outside after work the mosquitoes were out - so I get it! However, the physical and mental benefits of spending time in nature cannot be understated and it is our responsibility to teach our children good habits. If you need a reminder, drive on over to Blacklick Metro Park and walk the path. The crunch of the gravel, the canopy of trees and saying hi to your fellow Reynoldsburg residents always makes things feel right in the world. I think we could all use some feel good medicine this year. I agree that if finding ways to be in nature is complicated for you and you really don’t need another complication in life there is a way to make it happen easily with no commute time. Use your home’s outdoor spaces to create a customized sanctuary to enjoy. All you need is a comfortable chair or hammock, some potted plants, a hanging basket and an outdoor rug. It’s so easy! Trust me – if all else fails and you can’t find much time to get outside to parks, seeing a hummingbird enjoy your flowers on a gorgeous summer morning while sipping your coffee will do the trick. Happy Spring! Five simple reasons to spend some time outside: • Charge your immune system • Lift up your mood • Get a dose of Vitamin D • Create mindfulness • Improve your memory Kiki (Cicak) Caines is the newest addition to Reynoldsburg Magazine’s editorial staff. She is a Reynoldsburg High School graduate and is now the owner of Fisher’s Gardens on Route 256. Reynoldsburg Magazine • Spring, 2021
13 Publizr Home