EMBRACE AND INVEST IN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE

Significantly more Filipinos are appreciating what being outside can do for their overall wellbeing. We are also increasingly embracing skin tone diversity, being proud of our beautiful brown skin, and realizing all the more the health benefits of working up a sweat by spending time outside under the warm sun.

However, current travel restrictions and pandemic regulations have forced all of us to stay at home. It is therefore imperative to create more outdoor spaces in our residences and nearby areas where we can safely socialize and enjoy nature again. And since both health and design experts highly recommend linking our indoor and outdoor spaces to increase natural air flow, expanding beyond the walls of our homes is definitely the way to go. Instead of planning trips elsewhere, there are plenty of ways to turn our living spaces into relaxing getaway destinations or even customized staycation resorts.

One such example is by creating a meditation garden in the lawn where the entire family’s long-term mental wellbeing can be nurtured through a restful and meaningful reflective experience in the outdoors. The correct choice of shrubs, hedges and trees can inspire and help create this relaxing atmosphere. The addition of unique elements such as water features, rocks, and art installations in this secluded room with nature will surely give out feelings of peace and solitude, perfect for moments of quiet prayer and meditation. Aromatic shrubs and trees like Sampaguita, Jasmin, Ylang-Ylang, Lavender and Mint will also fragrance the air and calm the body, mind and spirit. Studies reveal that even a simple activity such as stepping on grass and other natural surfaces produces calming hormones making walking meditation, yoga, tai chi and similar relaxing outdoor activities the perfect escape from the chaos of the world.

Edible landscaping or the blending of landscape design with edible gardening is also becoming a household name these days. You do not have to be born with a green thumb to grow and enjoy food from your own backyard. Just keep it small and simple. Choose at least five types of vegetables or herbs to grow and plant a few of each kind.While tending the garden strengthens family bonds, it can also provide an opportunity for the children to enjoy fun and creative activities that incorporates art, math and science. Growing high-yield, inexpensive and easy care fruits, herbs and vegetables is also a smart way to save money. And with the emergence of new design styles and ideas for outdoor spaces, food gardens can also be a feast for the eyes, at the same time productive and functional.

The needs and expectations of children are also important when designing outdoor spaces in our homes. Play areas are vital for the healthy development of children. Creating space for them to remain active gives them the means to explore the natural environment, stimulating their senses through what they see, touch and feel. Being outdoors is an effective way to burn off our kids’ busy energy and help them to stay physically fit. In compliance with the government’s protocols, encouraging our kids to kick a ball outside, to race from one side of the swimming pool to another, or to play tag in the safety of our very own backyards may well be the current best option. Healthy staycation activities like these are the best chance to still come together as a family and build happy memories in spite of the pandemic.

We can agree that exposure to nature and healthy air quality can lead to happier city dwellers. Still, in an urban setting, so many of us do not have the luxury of ample outdoor living space. Our communities need more well-designed green and open spaces that encourage outdoor activity and promote social interactions that can bring physical, mental and emotional health benefits to the residents and foster good relationships among the members of the community. It is high time the government displayed a more environmental and inclusive approach towards urban design and development. It is about time to invest in more green spaces and parks in today’s cities to reconnect its people with nature and boost their overall wellbeing. Green spaces and healing gardens around hospitals, for instance, have dramatically improved the condition of patients. Biophilic design elements used in offices, schools and commercial spaces have been proven to boost workers’ productivity, improve students’ test scores, and increase sales for retail stores.

We can agree that exposure to nature and healthy air quality can lead to happier city dwellers.

Overall it may be said that building healthy neighborhoods and cities begins with creating healthy homes. Even a humble little outdoor living space outside your residence where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature is going to be good for your family’s well being. Strong and fit members of the families are at the core of a healthy society. And one sure way to create a healthful home environment for you and your loved ones is to include well-planned and beautifully-designed outdoor spaces that calm, nourish, restore and gives the whole family a sense of balance and clarity during these turbulent times. Outdoor home features will also boost the value of urban homes resulting to wealthy and economically healthy cities.

Overall it may be said that building healthy neighborhoods and cities begins with creating HEALTHY HOMES.

The Philippines is a tropical country where we can relish nature at its best. It is only inherent to align ourselves with the creation and bridge our family to nature even in the middle of the city. Creating serene, functional and comfortable outdoor living spaces in our homes where we can enjoy the sun, fresh air and the green surroundings will encourage in a simple way a lifelong appreciation for nature, improve physical, mental and emotional health and will meaningfully spark real joy in living for ourselves and our family.