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The Natural Advantage (Jenny Brockis, Major Street)

The message of Jenny Brockis’s The Natural Advantage is straightforward: the cure for stress in our increasingly hectic modern world is to spend more time in nature. ‘Intuitively, we know nature is good for us,’ she writes. ‘But let’s not get lulled into the false sense of “everyone knows this, so what’s the fuss?”.’ Inspired by what she calls the ‘Anthropause’ (Covid lockdowns), Brockis offers a science-based look at the way we interact with the world and how that world, in turn, can provide an escape from the human-made pressures we so often labour under. With a focus on burnout, loneliness, stress and chronic disease, Brockis offers steps in the right direction, including time away from the computer, reconnecting with nature and green spaces, and bringing plants into the home and workplace. Brockis’s argument is refreshingly clear-eyed (acknowledging not all of nature is for everyone) and well thought through, resulting in practical and occasionally surprising advice. We know that digital devices are distracting, but it turns out the thought processes they encourage (especially multi-tasking) are even worse. Even if you’re not looking to disconnect from technology completely, The Natural Advantage offers a practical guide to de-stressing and reconnecting with the world. With screen time now a significant focus for many people, and books like The Anxious Generation highlighting the issue, this book is perfect for readers seeking more balance in their lives.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Anthony Morris is a freelance reviewer, novelist, and podcaster. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

 

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews