Explorer Tremor: It’s All in (Both) Names
With increasing demands for our time and attention, it's easy to feel stressed and disconnected. In my role, I spend a lot of time thinking about health, and not just in the traditional sense of medicine and treatment. I'm increasingly focused on well-being — the holistic state of physical, mental, and social health that allows us to thrive.
Science and nature working hand in hand can be a powerful team.
Think about it: How do you feel after a walk in the woods, a day at the beach, or even just sitting in a park? You might say “refreshed,” “calmer," or “more connected.”
Natural environments are often less stimulating than urban environments — in a good way. They allow our brains to rest and recover. Nature also provides opportunities for physical activity, spending real quality time with friends and family, and sensory experiences. Perhaps most importantly, it connects us to something larger than ourselves, fostering a sense of awe and wonder.
In fact, increasingly more healthcare professionals say spending time in natural surroundings contributes toward our well-being. Studies have shown that time in nature can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, and improve mood.
The findings of researchers in the U.K. are informative. People with mental health needs who took part in pilot studies — including conservation, horticulture, and gardening — showed reduced anxiety and increased happiness.. And, as far back as 1982, the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries coined the term shinrin-yoku, or “forest-bathing,” to describe the idea of immersing yourself in a natural environment and reaping the associated health benefits.
Making It Happen
What does nature have to do with a car company? Honestly, more than you might think. We named a vehicle Explorer for a reason. It speaks to an intrinsic part of the human experience: the desire to venture out, discover new places, and experience the world around us.
Being able to easily get to a natural environment can literally open whole new worlds of possibility. Yet the sad truth is that modern life has often fooled us into thinking that this is a journey to be undertaken sparingly — on vacations, perhaps — and with great effort.
It doesn’t have to be that way. That's why I'm especially excited to share something new that we like to call: Explorer prescriptions.
These are a series of simple, accessible activities designed to help you reconnect with the natural world. To take advantage of some, you may want to hop in a car to reach a cherished space. For many of these, however, there is no need. And you don't need to live in the countryside or have access to vast wilderness areas to benefit. Nature is all around us, even in the heart of the city.
Here are a few examples:
- Take a walk in your local park: Breathe in the fresh air and observe the plants, trees, and animals around you.
- Sit near a body of water: It could be a lake, river, or maybe just a pond or fountain where you can hear the water. Let the rhythmic flow calm your mind.
- Have a picnic: Make a healthy meal, pick up your friends, and make a day of it outside.
You can see the full list of Explorer prescriptions here.
For me, cycling is a great way to explore my surroundings and get some exercise. I love being able to load my bike into the back of my car and head to a local trail. But it can be even simpler. Just walking across the greenway to Michigan Central Station helps provide me with a much-needed dose of nature.
How Much Time Do I Need?
We're used to instant gratification. We want everything right now, and we have little patience for waiting. But the benefits of nature aren't always immediate. It takes time to settle in, disconnect from the stresses of daily life, and truly connect with the natural world.
That's why Explorer prescriptions emphasize duration. Where possible, try to devote at least 30 minutes to each activity. Fully immerse yourself in the experience.
The key is to find activities that you enjoy and that fit into your lifestyle. Although it’s fantastic if you have the time, you don’t have to spend hours in the wilderness to reap the benefits.
Do I Have to Stick to the Script?
Absolutely feel free to customize to best suit you. In no way are they meant to be a one-size-fits-all solution. They are a starting point, a whispered suggestion, a source of inspiration.
Think about what brings you joy, what makes you feel alive. Do you love hiking, gardening, birdwatching, or simply sitting under a tree? Whatever it is, make time for it. And don't be afraid to experiment.
Try new things, explore new places, and discover what works best for you.
Starting to Explore
Start small. Maybe that means taking a 15-minute walk during your lunch break or sitting in a park for a few minutes each day. The key is to make it a habit.
Once you start experiencing the benefits of nature, you'll be more motivated to make it a regular part of your life.
I'm convinced that nature is essential for our well-being. It's not just a luxury. It can help ensure that we all live healthier, happier, and more fulfilling lives.
So, let's get out there and explore!
Download Explorer Prescriptions
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Dr. Francesca Litow is Ford global medical director.
Contains public sector information from“National Evaluation of the Preventing and Tackling Mental Ill Health through Green Social Prescribing Project: Final Report” (January 2024), prepared for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
Available at: https://randd.defra.gov.uk/ProjectDetails?ProjectId=20772
Licence: https://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3/
