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Kansas City, Mo. – Time in nature can boost health, and when people slow down, the human senses can focus on the natural processes around them. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer free hammock hike programs from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 22, and from 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 26, at the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. This program is part of a monthly Nature Rx series about using time outdoors to boost health.
Participants will take a stroll in the woods near the nature center. Lisa Richter, MDC naturalist, will discuss how to choose a good spot to set up a hammock and the best knots to use in securing it to trees. Richter will also discuss how to use the senses to soak up some nature therapy.
Through the year, the nature prescription series will explore the mind and body’s response to immersion in nature. Studies have shown that enjoyable nature experiences can reduce stress, boost immunity, lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and provide other health benefits. Other upcoming activities and topics in the Rx Series will include s’more night strolls, kayak paddling, outdoor yoga, and forest day spa.
This series is open to participants 18 and older. Registration is required. COVID-19 safety precautions will be followed. To register for the March 22 hammock hike, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4oH. To register for the March 26 Nature Rx event, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/4oV.
For more information about the Burr Oak Woods Nature Center, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/burroakwoods.
