Everyone knows fresh air is good for you. But did you know that exercising outside or in view of outside is more effective than exercising inside? Or that dementia gardens can improve memory? Or that PTSD and ADHD can improve with nature guidance? How does nature work? Behavioral activation? Cortisol, vitamin D and serotonin level change? Phytoncide inhalation? Immune system desensitization?

This research, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, aimed to assess whether implementation of specific nutrition and physical activity components of school wellness policies lead to healthier student outcomes, including BMI trajectories. Findings indicate that implementing strong school nutrition policies results in healthier weight trajectories in middle school students.

In order for us to best serve our patients and communities, it is important to take care of ourselves and our colleagues. In healthcare, we have a special opportunity to be role models in health and wellbeing for those we serve.