According to the National Wildlife Federation, being active in nature is good for us on every level physically, mentally, and emotionally, for both children and adults:

• Enhances fitness
• Restores attention
• Speeds recovery from illness and surgery
• Raises blood levels of vitamin D (which protects against bone loss,
• heart disease, diabetes, and a slew of other health problems)
• Improves distance vision and lowers risk of developing nearsightedness
• Reduces symptoms of stress and attention deficit hyperactivitydisorder (ADhD)
• Improves critical-thinking skills and memory
• Lowers aggression
• Boosts classroom performance
• Sets a good example for our kids

And I would add:

• Meet your neighbors and broaden your network
• Get to know your community and surroundings
• Cultivate an appreciation of nature
• It’s “green”—the only fuel you burn is calories, and you don’t use up resources to produce equipment.