Nature is a powerful force that can have a profound impact on the human mind and body. For leaders, spending time in nature can be especially beneficial, as it can provide a sense of perspective and inspiration, as well as promote physical and mental well-being. In this essay, we will explore why leaders should play with and in nature, with multiple citations from experts in the field.
One of the main benefits of spending time in nature is that it can provide a sense of perspective. According to Dr. Richard Louv, author of "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder," "Nature is not a place to visit. It is home." (Louv, 2005) This means that by spending time in nature, leaders can reconnect with the natural world and gain a sense of perspective on their place in it.
Another benefit of spending time in nature is that it can promote creativity and inspiration. According to Dr. David Strayer, a cognitive psychologist at the University of Utah, "Nature can inspire creativity, insight, and new ways of thinking." (Strayer, 2015) This means that by spending time in nature, leaders can gain new insights and ideas that can help them to be more effective in their roles.
In addition to providing perspective and inspiration, spending time in nature can also promote physical and mental well-being. According to Dr. Helen Berry, a lecturer in Environmental Psychology at the University of Glasgow, "Nature has a positive impact on our physical and mental health, reducing symptoms of stress and depression and improving overall well-being." (Berry, 2019) This means that by spending time in nature, leaders can improve their overall well-being, which can help them to be more effective in their roles.
One way that leaders can spend time in nature is by playing. According to Dr. Peter Gray, a research professor of psychology at Boston College, "Play is the most important means by which children learn, and adults can learn, too." (Gray, 2013) This means that by playing in nature, leaders can engage with the natural world in a fun and meaningful way, which can help them to learn and grow.
In conclusion, spending time in nature can be a powerful way for leaders to gain perspective, inspiration, and well-being. By playing with and in nature, leaders can reconnect with the natural world, gain new insights and ideas, and improve their overall well-being. By following the advice of experts such as Richard Louv, David Strayer, Helen Berry and Peter Gray, leaders can discover the benefits of nature, and add new value to their leadership.
References:
Louv, R. (2005). Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. Algonquin Books.
Strayer, D. (2015). The Science of Nature's Influence on Creativity. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2015/04/the-science-of-natures-influence-on-creativity
Berry, H. (2019). The Psychological Benefits of Nature. The Conversation. Retrieved from https://theconversation.com/the-psychological-benefits-of-nature-120852
Gray, P. (2013). The Importance of Play in Nature. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/freedom-learn/201312/the-importance-play-in-nature