Last weekend, I went camping after a long time of tiring work. The trip let me enjoy the clear lake and beautiful views in the woods. I felt the difference at once. I relaxed. I came home feeling rested and a little more cheerful. Going camping became a way to reduce the worry in my life.

I not only got a nice weekend, but I was also experiencing the benefits (益处) of nature to my mental health (心理健康)—something that researchers and healthcare providers have long noticed. Research has found that as little as five minutes in nature can be helpful for people to reduce worry and feel happier. This means that we can get relaxed and feel better from stepping outside right away.

If we are unable to put our whole body and mind into nature — for example, by taking a weekend camping trip — we can still find chances in our area. We can take a five-minute break in a small park near our house or take a moment to sit under a large tree. We’ll find them useful to refresh our mind. Our better feelings in later life can demonstrate the active influence of nature.

Besides simply spending more time outdoors, consider how we can enjoy nature even if we have no time to get close to nature. Listen to recorded bird songs or rainstorms instead of music, bring green plants or put pictures of natural beauty into our home. Although bringing nature indoors is quite different from a real outdoor experience, we can still feel nature and experience improved feelings.

Being in nature doesn’t ask anything of us. Slow down, go outside, and notice what’s around us. Listen, touch and smell, and we will really notice a benefit in our mental health. 

1. 1．What did the writer do last weekend?

A    The writer went camping.

B    The writer went shopping.

C    The writer went skating.

D    

2. 2．Why does the writer mention the research in Paragraph 2?

A    To discuss the method of the health research.

B    To explain the influence of being outdoors.

C    To introduce the trip at the weekend.

D    

3. 3．What does the underlined word “demonstrate” in Paragraph 3 probably mean?

A    Improve.

B    Give.

C    Show.

D    

4. 4．What can help people feel better according to the writer?

A    Putting plants at home.

B    Listening to rock music.

C    Taking pictures of houses.

D    

5. 5．What is the writer’s main purpose in writing this passage?

A    To describe personal worry about nature.

B    To share a story about nature with readers.

C    To encourage readers to get close to nature.

D