Nature Deficit Disorder
by catalicu | October 1, 2009 at 4:16 PM
Some years ago, writer Richard Louv coined a concept many had grasped, but none had been able to name. Nature Deficit Disorder might be the most common emotional and physical problem for urban areas. A " Microwave, car and tv" generation has taken over the lives of children and adults who feel more related to spending time inside. Different specialists have identified a relation between attention deficit, obesity and other behavioral problems to Nature Deficit Disorder. Nonetheless, I feel a more profound and dangerous effect at a society level. Both adults and children lack a sense of connection with nature around them and acting accordingly lacking any responsible behavior towards the environment.
Fortunately, many of us have been lucky enough to enjoy nature from our childhood and have developed the sensibility and skills to appreciate mountains, valleys and beaches for their inherent beauty. For many years, even unconsciously, I´ve had the opportunity to share my ability to wonder with children and most of the time I´ve been filled with hope discovering a spark of curiosity even in the most "urbanised" of kids.
The solution is to take some time outdoors. Take a brake and make some time to walk pointlessly, to smell and listen without purpose and to keep alive the awe of a system much bigger than anything humans could ever build.
Comments
Yes sister!
Hi Catalina,
I agree with you completely - that the only way to save our planet is to get its human inhabitants out in nature. It's so easy to be consumed with work, school and entertainment distractions like TV and the Internet. If everyone can take the time to get out in nature and honor it's power, resource and beauty, then we can start caring more about how we treat our Mother Earth. I am interested to hear more about the programs you are involved in that immerse urban children in nature!
Thanks for sharing this powerful, yet simple solution that we can all follow.
Cheers,
Jade
When I get more time
When I get more time I´personally write about different views and experiences on environmental education.
Check our Organization website: www.opepa.org
And "leave no child inside"! jajaja
Nature
Cata!!
What a beautiful article. I think that there is a great knowledge to be learned just by being outdoors. I think that people's ignorance in hurting the environment is directly related to a lack of time spent in nature. Maybe if everyone was required to go outside at least every weekend we'd be in a better place in history.
Thanks for writing! Very much appreciated :)
Hug,
Mari