Vocabulary:
- splendid /SPLEN-did/
- enrich /en-RICH/
- administer /ad-MIN-uh-ster/
- exposure /ik-SPOH-zher/
- accessible /ak-SES-uh-buhl/
- nurture /NUR-cher/
[adjective] excellent
You did a splendid presentation today at the office.
[verb] to improve the quality of something by adding something else
He always helps her enrich her skills and unleash her potential.
[verb] to manage or control the operation of something
Mr. Roi was the one who administered the entrance exam at his university.
[noun] the fact of experiencing something or being affected by it because of being in a particular situation or place
Ms. Catherine should limit her sister’s exposure to the sun.
[adjective] possible to approach, enter, or use
The main road is accessible to all pedestrians.
[verb] to take care of, feed, and protect someone or something
We should nurture the gift of life.
Acclimate your habitual activity
According to a study administered by the University of Exeter Medical School, spending two hours a week with nature, even in brief moments, offers a positive effect on our health and wellbeing. Dr. Mathew White, who supervised the study, proposed that a feeling of tranquility could be the key to good health. Having a cup of coffee close to an open window or in the garden is an easy way to inspire calmness. Also, heading out during breaks or spending a few moments watching the night sky before going to bed are good ideas.
Take a closer look at your surroundings
Leanne Manchester from The Wildlife Trusts encourages every individual to look closely at trees, plants, and even weeds. According to Claire Francis of the charity Sensory Trust, going out and getting closer to nature doesn’t require a lot of effort. Moreover, Director Jo Phillips of the Forest School Association proposes looking for “five beautiful things” to captivate your senses. It could be trees, sunlight, mountains, sees or living creatures.
Partake in nature
Manchester claims that getting off the bus early or taking a walk during work breaks are easy methods to boost exposure to nature. If a person is taking a walk with someone, particularly children, Phillips advises to point out elements that catch a person’s attention. Being responsible for nature and everything on this planet is humans’ top priority. Through these, future generations will have knowledge and experience about nature.
Search for green areas online
Finding nature reserves for relaxation and recreation should never be a problem for there are adequate green places in every area. A searchable map online that is capable to locate different nature reserves is helpful in finding green spaces in one’s place. Furthermore, online maps provide a catalog of nature reserves that are accessible to everyone.
Take nature along to your window
Nurturing or growing a plant on a window ledge can provide interest for people who cannot go outside and explore nature. Also, placing a bird box near the window is as good as growing plants. You can enjoy observing the birds from a window with a fantastic view.
Comprehension Questions:
- According to the article, what are the five ways to make yourself closer to nature while in the city?
- Who is Dr. Mathew White?
- What does Philips advise to those who are taking a walk in nature with children?
- What does Claire Francis state in the article?
- Based on the article, why do people need to be responsible for nature?
Discussion Questions:
- Do you think the approaches given in the article are effective? Why or why not?
- What are the pros and cons of making yourself closer to nature while living in the city?
- How do you keep yourself healthy while living in the city?
- Why do you think people need nature to have a healthy life? Give 2 reasons and explain each.
- How do you keep yourself closer to nature? Explain your answer