The Arboretum

In the arboretum, you share the space with trees from the northern hemisphere.

Challenge

Touch the trees you know the name of.

If you are in a group, hold each other’s hands and try to touch as many trees as possible. How many can you reach – and how many do you know the names of?

Food for thought

Knowing and learning the names of plants and trees affects the way we see. Instead of seeing one plant among many, we can suddenly see specific species. Knowledge of nature can arouse both curiosity and wonder – a ‘wow’ feeling.

Is there anything in nature that you would like to learn more about? Have you had an experience in or with nature that has sparked wonder and curiosity? What does wonder and curiosity feel like in your body?

What the research says

Forests have a calming effect on people. For example, studies have shown that the heart beats faster in urban environments than in nature. The brain also becomes calmer and more relaxed in nature. Practising forest bathing and soaking up the forest atmosphere with all five senses can have a positive effect on both mental and physical health.

Read more about the forest bathing and human well-being research in the study: Hur kan skogsbad skölja bort stressen hos den urbana människan? (How can forest bathing wash away stress for city dwellers; stydy in Swedish)

The next physical movement challenge is not far away

Map over stations for the physical literate campus

The various movement challenges challenge you to move and contemplate. The challenges are located around the campus pond and in the forest behind SLU.

What is physical literacy?

Physical literacy, or ‘rörelserikedom’ in Swedish, takes a holistic view of each individual’s ability to move.

Physical literacy is not the same as physical activity or fitness; it includes motivation, self-confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding. It allows each individual to develop their mobility skills and feel motivated and excited about movement.

The more daring and willing a person is to be physically active in different social contexts and physical environments, the better their chances of having an active, healthy life and to grow and flourish as a human being.

Latest update: 2023-09-08