Serve your Spirit a Plant-Based Diet FIND YOUR BLUES & GREENS
BY MARTA SHAND
L et’s take this month’s theme of “Plant Forward” and apply it to how we nourish our spirit. When we commit to a Plant Forward Diet, we are prioritizing eating plant-based foods, using animal protein to flavor dishes rather than the main ingredient on the plate. So if we apply that concept in other areas of our lives, it makes sense that we could prioritize spending more time outdoors in nature. Sounds like a great idea, right!
“Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson
Spending time out in nature is linked to huge benefits both physical and mental. Getting outside can recharge, reduce stress, boost creativity, and help you to improve your sleep. Even twenty minutes of walking or sitting outdoors can positively impact your mood. “IN EVERY WALK WITH NATURE ONE RECEIVES FAR MORE THAN HE SEEKS.” — JOHN MUIR You don’t have to climb a mountain to experience the physical or mental benefits of spending time in nature. Studies have shown that time in nature or exposure to green space to lowering mortality rates. In countries with longer lifespans, these populations typically spend more time outdoors, either working or just being outdoors and being active. However, with advances in technology, we are spending more and more time indoors and less and less time outside, making it important to carve out time to enjoy the natural spaces around us. Find out what is near you. You may be surprised how close a state or local park is. If you plan on spending time outdoors, be sure to take precautions such as wearing sun protection and any necessary personal protective gear.
Escape the demands of everyday life and find your blues and greens!
“We can never have enough of nature.” –Henry David Thoreau
Marta Shand | Beaumont Unified School District Marta Shand is an advocate for wellness and promotes healthy habits to her students, staff and community. She has spent 24 years holding management positions in the field of Nutrition including time in both Healthcare and School Nutrition settings. Currently a Director of Child Nutrition Services at Beaumont Unified School District where she is committed to expanding the Nutrition Advisory Council (NAC) Classes and the Student Wellness Committees. Marta Shand holds a BS in Dietetics and has been awarded the Health Advocate Award by Coachella Valley Health Collaborative.
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