The benefits of spending time in nature—for both mental and physical wellbeing—are well established. Our An Hour in Nature series highlights how our community experiences the healing and restorative power of the outdoors. Recently, the opposite side of the equation has been explored.⁠ ⁠ American author Richard Louv coined the term “nature deficit disorder” to describe the negative effects on children who grow up without regular contact with the natural world. His book Last Child in the Woods, first published in 2005, introduced this idea. However, it wasn’t until the 2020 pandemic and lockdowns that the concept gained widespread attention. Families without access to green spaces began to notice sharp increases in stress and anxiety, particularly in children. This moment underscored what Louv had long argued: that regular time in nature is not just beneficial—it’s essential.⁠ ⁠ ⁠ #koalaeco #morenaturefeelbetter⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠ ⁠