One of the simplest ways we can prioritize our health is by spending time in nature — but many of us rarely do it.

The big picture: Americans went on 1 billion fewer hikes, bike rides and walks in 2018, compared with 2008, Outside magazine reports.

• While the share of people spending time in nature ticked up during the pandemic as folks had more free time, we're still spending more time indoors than we did a decade ago.
• Some 100 million Americans, including 27 million kids, don't have access to decent green spaces, The Guardian reports.

Why it matters: Time spent outside is a natural antidote to stress, Yale’s School of the Environment notes.

• Studies show that it comes with a slew of benefits, including lowering blood pressure and anxiety levels, and improving immune system function and self-esteem.

There's even a formula. One Nature study — with 20,000 participants — by researchers from the University of Exeter found that people who spent two hours a week in parks, at beaches or in woodlands scored higher than others on metrics related to physical and psychological well-being.

• The effects were only apparent after the two-hour threshold was reached.

What's next: Many of you have sent us stunning photos of nature from your travels abroad or your own backyard. We want to hear about your most beloved spots and why they're special.

• Send us a few lines about your favorite place to take a walk, along with your name, hometown and, of course, a pic to [email protected] to be featured in a special nature walk edition of the newsletter.

We love when you include animals in your nature shots! Here's the sunset behind cattle being moved in Meagher County, Mont., from Finish Liner Jon D.