American culture is becoming a culture of indoor living. Computer games are slowly replacing outdoor activities and watching TV is becoming much more popular than camping.

Americans are finding all possible ways to make themselves sick and make pharmaceutical companies rich. They overeat, eat junk food, use products packed with chemicals and pesticides, don’t get enough exercise and underestimate the benefits of fresh air.

Fresh air is as important to us as water and nutrition. Studies show that children who get more Vitamin G (a so-called vitamin of green-spaces) are generally happier, calmer and more successful at school.

Among other benefits, fresh air helps us sleep better, reduces our stress levels, helps digestion and stimulates appetite. It cleans our lungs and clears our brain. For those who suffer from headaches, walking in fresh air can help. When we are indoors we inhale chemicals and dust mites, even if we have air cleansers and humidifiers in each corner of our house. These harmful compounds can cause chronic headaches, decrease energy levels and even cause depression.

For people living in big cities, being outside doesn’t always mean breathing fresh air. Spend a day or a weekend in the mountains or at the shore; or at least have a picnic in the park.

We don’t have to be a nation with nature-deficit disorder. We can and we should enjoy the healing power of fresh air and nature. Step out outside. Breathe deeply. Stay healthy.