Newspaper writing report
Article 1: Staying in and its effects
Article 5: Appreciation of nature
Article 1: Staying in and its effects
Are we heading towards being an ‘Indoor Generation’?
Unstructured outdoor play time seems to have become a rarity,
thanks to the advent of technology that has provided kids with
access to multiple entertainment gadgets. Staying cooped up
indoors is becoming increasingly evident amongst kids today.
A recent study by the National Wildlife Federation states that
American children spend an average of four to seven minutes on
daily outdoor play. With developments in technology and finding
amusements inside the house, kids are missing out on crucial
outdoor recreational activities. Spending time indoors is not only
harmful for the body, but has adverse effects on the mind as
well.
Research states that around 90% of people spend around 22
hours inside every day. Isn’t it surprising that people aren’t at
all paying attention to their bodily needs for fresh air and
sunlight? There seems to be more happiness in discovering a new
online game or a new app than appreciating the benefits of the
great outdoors.
The health repercussions of being locked up indoors can be
alarming for kids in the long run. One of the major concerns
plaguing the new generation of kids is childhood obesity. Obesity
in children aged 6-11 has doubled in the last 24 years, says as
per the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) and lack of
sufficient outdoor play is cited as one of the main reasons.
Limited exposure to the sun is also responsible for deficiency of
Vitamin D that can result in severe health issues. Vitamin D
prevents heart disease, diabetes and bone problems. The
American Academy of Pediatrics states that only 10 minutes of
sun exposure in a day is enough for our daily vitamin D dose.
It’s not just physical health that is at stake here. Mental health
problems have a direct correlation with our physical environment.
It has been proved that just being outdoors amidst greenery can
cause stress levels in kids to fall drastically.
Aren’t these some compelling reasons to step out and explore the
inviting outdoors?
Article 5: Appreciation of nature
Nature is our lifeline and is at the core of our survival. The air
we breathe, the food we eat and the land we walk on are all
manifestations of nature in its various forms. But how many of
us have actually made a conscious attempt to appreciate nature
and its embodiments?
Nurturing our symbiotic relationship with nature is important.
Consider how your senses aid you in interacting with your
surroundings in both major and minor ways. The sense of awe we
receive when we are in the presence of nature can even help us
to be happier and healthier. Understanding our responsibility in
preserving our natural environment is critical to ensure that it
not only survives, but flourishes.
Nature has a pivotal part to play when it comes to our mental
wellbeing. Be it the lush green outdoors or the rustling of the
gentle breeze on a balmy day, a few moments spent in harmony
with nature has an instant calming effect on the mind and can
help diffuse stress levels. The balance provided by nature can
do wonders for our physical health too. When we play outside,
we are exposed to UV rays, which cause dopamine to be released
in the retina and vitamin D to be circulated throughout the body.
All of these processes work together to protect our eyes.
Exploring nature through walks, runs, trekking, camping and the
like can be enjoyable ways of maintaining physical fitness.
An existence without nature is perhaps inconceivable.
Appreciating this beautiful gift of God and doing our own small
bit to preserve it is perhaps the best way to express our
gratitude towards nature.
