Science Explains Why You Love Hiking But Your Friend Doesn’t

How Genetics and Experience Shape Your Love of the Outdoors

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Is the allure of nature ingrained in our DNA or shaped by our childhood experiences? If you’re like me, you’re drawn to the natural world. There’s something soothing and soul stirring about being surrounded by trees, hearing birds chirp, smelling fresh air.

Genetic Roots of Nature’s Embrace

But where does that come from? Is it built into our DNA or is it something we learn to enjoy through experience?

According to Swedish scientists, it’s a bit of both! The genes that we inherit from our parents play a role in shaping our love of nature. But our own childhood experiences also influence how connected we feel to the great outdoors.

Moonlit Memories and Nature Escapes

I didn’t grow up in the internet age, so being outdoors was my escape, like the internet is for kids today. Even after dark, the neighborhood kids would bolt outside to play games like Starlight Starbright, where we’d race around in the dark, soaking up the cool dampness of the night.

We’d play hide-and-seek tag in the woods near my house for hours, stifling giggles as we hid behind…