Peace Out, Negative Energy. How You Can Organize Your Home For Well-Being.

Originally appeared in mindbodygreen.

During my workday, I sit inside at a computer to write, research, and connect with people. But I always need those daily breaks to walk outside, breathe the fresh air, feel the sunlight on my skin, and appreciate life. Sound like you, too?

This attraction to the outdoors has a name: biophilia. Psychologist Erich Fromm coined the term in the 1950s to explain our inherent need to connect to the living world. He qualified biophilia as a part of our inner nature and a requirement for proper development. In other words, a connection to nature contributes not only to greater physical well-being but mental, emotional, and spiritual health, too.

That's why the fact that we're becoming an increasingly indoor culture is so concerning. Our lack of exposure to nature is a huge problem—one that we're just starting to fully comprehend and grapple with. (Read more in mindbodygreen).