Benefits of a School Community Garden

The idea of gardening for food is a generally appealing topic. People really enjoy food, and people tend to also enjoy plants, and of course, people love to create something and watch it grow, enabling them to get an edible benefit out of it. That being said, gardening isn't instinctual and requires a bit of knowledge, dedication, and hard work to make sure it all goes smoothly. These are all aspects of life that school children can benefit from. Having a shared space for children to come together, learn, and create something beneficial for everyone, is an idea that I can personally get behind. There are even many schools near us that are doing it. 

Check out https://www.projectpa.org/index.php/farm-to-school/school-gardens and https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/18/07/let-it-grow

Benefits of Therapy Dogs in Schools

    This is a topic that I have some personal experience with, that I felt was quite a positive one. During my time in school, I was suspended and sent to a correctional campus that was extremely strict and definitely a punishment. That being said, one of the services they offered to the kids that went there was that every day, we had two service dogs that would patrol the classrooms and interact with us throughout the day. Some of the students were chosen as permanent dog handlers and spent time with the dogs, learning skills and empathy, among other things. It was widely viewed as extremely positive by everyone I met there. 

    The studies behind having dogs in the classroom say that it aids in social skills, prevents social isolation, and stimulates social behavior. It provides stability and a sense of peace and companionship, especially for students that come from a troubled home life. There are shown benefits in mood, self esteem, and depression symptoms lesson when dogs are around. Dogs really just might be the best school friend you never knew you needed. 

Benefits of visiting the zoo

    Today I was able to go and visit one of our local zoos. I feel great, and had a fantastic time. Here is what some of the studies mention in regards to the benefits of visiting the zoo. This is a great way to get out and spend time with your family, first and foremost. For the majority of people, family is a highly important aspect of their lives. Studies have also shown that it's a great place to socialize, but also encourages empathy and compassion for the animals. Zoo's are also a great place to learn and experience things you may not get to see everyday, as they are educational in nature. Finally, in order to get around the zoo, you have to walk around. Plenty of exercise to be had there. Go visit your local zoo!

Beach Vacation Benefits

 Everyone needs to take a break at some point in their lives, and in my opinion, the beach is one of the best places you can visit for a mental health boost. Blue spaces are linked to overall improved health, with studies showing that a simple walk along the sand is enough to boost mood and improve mental health. The beach is widely considered a relaxation point already, and there are reasons for that. For most, it's a change of scenery. In your every day life, you will experience many of the same sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and familiar sensory activities. Changing your scenery every so often has been shown to increase feelings of relaxation at a minimum. You may not enjoy the water like I do, but that doesn't mean you can't find your own "beach" out there somewhere. Get out and experience something new or different every once in a while!