A Hunter Walks in the Woods

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I am sure many of you have heard of studies indicating that time spent outdoors in a green environment can substantially reduce symptoms of ADHD. The various studies indicate that being outdoors alone doesn't have the same impact and also that just being in green surroundings indoors doesn't appear to have any affect.

Few of the studies seem to address why an improvement is seen. Logic would tell us that we are burning off energy playing in open spaces, instead of sitting in front of a TV or computer. Maybe, but I believe there is something more to it. I believe that the reduction of our ADHD symptoms is the result of what we see.

Some of the theories on ADHD point to a need for stimulation. That is why the Hunter-type tends to look for excitement. We tend to live our lives a little more recklessly than the Farmers. We need stimulation to allow our minds to focus. Sitting still and doing routine tasks can be torturous. Many of us take stimulants that would have others a shaking, nervous reck, but are calming to us.

I believe the keen eye of an individual with ADHD views something like the woods a little differently. While the Farmer would see trees, bushes, a path and a brook, the Hunter sees an entire world. The branches overhead form an intricate nebula, tracing interconnected paths across the sky. The millions of leaves shimmer in endless shades of greens, yellows, reds and oranges. The path at your feet undulates randomly, reacting only to wind, rain, time and the steps of those before you. The brook sparkles, dances and gurgles, coming from some unknown source and dissappearing on its way around the bend. This explosion of stimulation asks nothing of us except that we absorb its sights and sounds. We won't be tested. There is no deadline for viewing it. There are no consequences for missing a detail. Endlessly stimulating, yet without pressure or judgement.

Since I was a young child, I have found my sanctuary in the woods. When I was having difficult times in my teens, a walk in the woods could put anything in perspective. Now, I spend a great deal of time at a desk, sitting in urban traffic, stuck on delayed flights. I live in a rather developed urban/suburban area. Those walks in the woods are more valuable than ever. Their restorative effects are quite reliable.

Now, with my two pre-teen Hunters, they too are learning that a walk in the woods is part of a healthier, happier life in living with ADHD.