The 20-5-3 rule: Unlocking your connection with nature
Technology has made us accustomed to the comfort of our homes. And now, going out of the home and spending time in nature seems like a luxury. This is where the 20-5-3 rule becomes vital. According to this rule, one needs to be outside 20 minutes for three days a week; five hours each month and three days off the grid each year.
Who developed the rule
The 20-5-3 approach, also referred to as the "nature pyramid," originated in the United States, as described by writer Michael Easter. Easter included research by Rachel Hopman, a postdoctoral fellow at Northeastern University, in his book The Comfort Crisis. According to the book, Dr. Hopman after examining the brain alterations brought about by spending many days in nature, developed the loose "rule" of 20-5-3.
20 minutes daily
As per Hopman's findings, it is technically sufficient to visit green areas for 20 minutes about three times a week. An easy 20-minute walk in an urban botanical garden can improve mood, memory, and cognitive function, according to the findings. However, Hopman discovered that none of these advantages were experienced by those who used their cell phone while walking.
5 hours monthly
Five hours is the minimal amount of time one should be spending monthly in a semi-wild environment, such as a state park with forest. One should ideally schedule one or two sessions every month for proper outdoor time. Nature stimulates and calms us in novel and distinctive ways. Per Hopman, "There seem to be more benefits associated with spending more time in wilder spaces."
3 days annually
This represents the pyramid's summit. You should take three days off-grid per year to spend in nature, either camping or hiring a cabin. Consider locations free of traffic, with erratic mobile service and untamed wildlife. This dose of pure nature is similar to a protracted meditation retreat. The true magic is when you are surrounded by more trees than power lines.
