Mud pies?! And why they are important!
🌳 Yesterday I sat with some campers and made mud pies. I was shocked to hear a few of them had no idea what a mud pie was. I was shocked to hear this as when I was a child making muddies we’re a regular everyday outdoor activity. I found myself explaining to the children how important playing in the mud is for our bodies, brains and our immune system. Although washing our hands and staying clean is a nessesity in some situations this was a good opportunity to show the kids, it’s ok to get messy.
🦠Did you know that spending time getting messy in nature can have amazing benefits for our health? Recent research suggests that the dirt and mud outside are home to friendly microorganisms that can help strengthen our immune system and protect against various illnesses, including allergies, asthma, depression, and anxiety.
🌱 Outdoor exercise not only allows us to explore freely but also exposes us to the power of natural materials like soil and mud, which contain these beneficial microorganisms. It's incredible how these tiny organisms can have such a positive impact on our overall well-being.
🧠 Nature has also been found to provide the perfect level of stimulation, helping our brains recharge and improve focus. Studies have shown that children with ADHD were better able to concentrate after a 20-minute walk in the park compared to a walk in an urban area. Being close to grass and trees seemed to have a beneficial effect on their minds.
🏞️ Outdoor play also offers valuable learning experiences. Activities like molding and kneading mud or sand can help children develop their senses and improve their sensorimotor skills. Additionally, outdoor environments allow children to explore and cope with their emotions in ways that may be challenging indoors.
🌺 The physical benefits of outdoor play are also evident, with exercise being a key advantage. But the latest research suggests that there are even more advantages to playing in natural environments, with the secret potentially lying in the mud itself.
🌿 The "hygiene hypothesis" is an idea that suggests the reduction in childhood infections over the years has affected our immune systems, leading to an increase in allergies and asthma. However, scientists now believe it is the non-infectious organisms in nature that play a crucial role in moderating our immune system's response and preventing overreactions.
🌍 Unfortunately, with urbanization and reduced outdoor play, children today are lacking exposure to these "old friends," making their immune systems more sensitive to threats. That's why it's important to make time for outdoor activities and enjoy nature's beneficial effects.
Remember, spending time outside has numerous benefits for our physical and mental well-being. So let's embrace the outdoors, get a little dirty, and let nature support our health and happiness! 🌿🌞✨
- Ashley
