In collaboration with L.L. Bean, Blum Center Associate Director Dr. Paul Piff is working on research regarding the various benefits of the outdoors. As mentioned in the article entitled “L.L. Bean returns to social media – with a mission,” included in this research will be an in depth analysis on the “mental, social and health benefits of experiencing awe through time spent outside.” 

The research focuses on  awe through nature and how it might improve post-pandemic social connections. Dr. Piff shared their hypothesis and explained it as “time outdoors, and particularly experiences that invoke awe, are among the most meaningful, memorable, and socially connecting experiences one can have.” We can anticipate results that will begin to explain the benefits of the outdoors in this post-pandemic life we’re beginning to navigate. 

To read more about Dr. Paul Piff’s research with L.L. Bean, click here.