By Rick Nauert PhD Senior News Editor Reviewed by John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on May 2, 2014 <\/p>\n
New research suggests playing outside for five-10 hours a week can increase a childs spiritual connection with the environment. <\/p>\n
Michigan State University investigators found children who spend significant time outdoors have a stronger sense of self-fulfillment and purpose than those who do not. <\/p>\n
As discussed in the Journal of the Study of Religion, Nature and Culture, children who played outside said they felt a connection with the earth, and felt their role is to protect it. <\/p>\n
These values are incredibly important to human development and well-being, said Dr. Gretel Van Wieren, assistant professor of religious studies. <\/p>\n
We were surprised by the results. Before we did the study, we asked, Is it just a myth that children have this deep connection with nature? But we found it to be true in pretty profound ways. <\/p>\n
For example, the children in her study expressed feelings of peacefulness and some believed that a higher power had created the natural world around them. <\/p>\n
They also reported feeling awestruck and humbled by natures power, such as storms, while also feeling happy and a sense of belonging in the world. <\/p>\n
Investigators also measured childrens aesthetic values, finding that those who engage in free play outside on a regular basis have a deep appreciation for beauty (i.e., balance, symmetry, and color), order and wonder (i.e., curiosity, imagination, and creativity). <\/p>\n
For example: lush green bushes, pattern-like blue spots in water, and fascination with bees nests. <\/p>\n
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