To be honest I think our language classrooms should be moved to a sunny meadow, beach or a forest trail. This isn’t a joke. Nature can boost emotional and physical well-being and no doubt - learning mood and motivation.
Moreover, the latest research shows that adding music to the outdoor activities would even do more magic:
„Listening to music outdoors, gardening while singing, or caring for animals—can improve mood, reduce stress, and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression.“*
Combining music and nature-based activities is successful because these approaches rely „on multi-sensory engagement, encouraging people to reconnect with their surroundings and express themselves creatively.“*
My experience shows that adult learners could engage in a more anxiety-free and fun conversations in English when walking in nature. Next step for more outcome could be adding music to the walk and talk. It is about anchoring individuals in the present moment through sight, sound, touch, and smell.
The phrase „touch grass“ is getting viral and its meaning is to go outside and engage with the real world instead of spending too much time online.
What is your language learning or teaching experience? Drop me a line.
*From neurosciencenews.com
https://neurosciencenews.com/music-nature-mental-health-29858/