New Year – New Book Review

Florence Williams’ The Nature Fix is all about how spending time outside can do amazing things for our minds and bodies. She digs into everything from the scientific data—measuring things like cortisol levels and brain waves—to the more intangible, emotional experiences of “awe” that come from immersing ourselves in wild or even just semi-wild places. I thoroughly enjoyed how she blended research with personal stories. It made the book feel both informative and approachable, giving me a nice balance between hard science and relatable anecdotes.

Travel = Varying Views

One of the aspects I really loved was Williams’ global journey—she visits Japan to learn about forest bathing, explores wilderness therapy camps in the U.S., and even looks at how urban parks in Singapore are integrated into busy city life. Through these travels, she shows that the healing power of nature doesn’t have to come from massive national parks or rugged mountain ranges. It can happen in neighborhood gardens, small urban forests, or a quick stroll by a river. Reading about how different cultures approach nature reminded me that I don’t always have to wait for a big outdoor adventure; sometimes, a brief walk outside can make a real difference in my day.

Different Perspectives

Another standout feature is how Williams combines scientific and non-scientific perspectives to explore nature’s benefits. She cites studies tracking changes in brain activity and stress hormones but also looks at personal and cultural stories highlighting the value of simply “being” in nature. I have to admit, there were a few times I stopped and looked up some of the more technical terms she used—but that extra effort felt worthwhile, and it certainly didn’t dampen my interest. In fact, it made me appreciate how deep and fascinating the research on nature’s influence can be.

My Nature Takeaway

Most importantly, The Nature Fix made me reflect on my own relationship with nature and how often (or not) I allow myself to feel a sense of awe. Whether I’m staring up at a towering tree canopy or just taking in a green view from my office window, I realize how restorative these moments can be—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Overall, I learned a lot from this book. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for motivation to get outdoors, along with a clearer understanding of why it feels so good to be there.