New, free ‘Nature Time’ program at Mariners’ Museum can do your body a lot of good

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NEWPORT NEWS — Gathered past sunset at Mariners’ Lake one cool Thursday evening, surrounded by the sounds of chirping crickets and a squawking blue heron, four nature lovers learned that time outdoors doesn’t just feel good for no reason.

The experience actually changes people’s health in measurable ways, including biologically and neurologically, said Kelly Garner, program manager of the lake at the Mariners’ Museum and Park in Newport News. Garner is also leader of a new program that combines meditation, stress reduction strategies and scientific research.

Take phytoncides, the chemicals released by trees to protect themselves from bacteria, fungi and harmful insects. Studies have shown that breathing in those compounds increases the produc