Meaning: 'Reduce' means to make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size, which in this context refers to lowering stress levels.

Wrong options:

• exacerbate: Exacerbate means to make a problem worse, which contradicts the positive effects of nature on stress levels, making it contextually incorrect.
• ignore: Ignore means to pay no attention to something, which does not fit the context of actively affecting stress levels.
• compound: Compound means to make something worse by adding to it, which is also contrary to the intended meaning of alleviating stress.

Correct answer: overall wellness

Explanation: The phrase 'overall wellness' fits well as it encompasses both mental and physical health benefits derived from outdoor activities. It is grammatically correct as a noun phrase that serves as the object of the verb 'contribute.'

Meaning: 'Overall wellness' refers to a state of being in good health, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Wrong options:

• technological dependence: Technological dependence refers to reliance on technology, which is unrelated to the benefits of outdoor activities and does not fit contextually.
• isolation: Isolation implies being separated from others, which contradicts the idea of engaging in physical activities that promote health and social interaction.
• indifference: Indifference means a lack of interest or concern, which does not align with the positive outcomes of being active outdoors.

Correct answer: cultivate

Explanation: The word 'cultivate' is appropriate as it is a verb that means to foster growth or development, fitting well with the context of enhancing our sense of peace and contentment. It aligns grammatically and contextually with the idea of nurturing a positive state of mind.

Meaning: 'Cultivate' means to develop or improve something through care and effort, in this case, our sense of peace and contentment.

Wrong options:

• demolish: Demolish means to destroy or tear down, which is the opposite of fostering a sense of peace, making it contextually incorrect.
• neglect: Neglect means to fail to care for something, which contradicts the idea of enhancing our sense of peace and contentment.
• alienate: Alienate means to make someone feel isolated or estranged, which does not fit the context of nurturing a positive emotional state.

Correct answer: reconnect

Explanation: The word 'reconnect' is suitable as it implies re-establishing a connection with nature, which is the intended meaning in the context of the sentence. It is grammatically correct as a verb that complements the subject of finding time.

Meaning: 'Reconnect' means to establish a connection again, particularly with nature in this context, emphasizing the importance of engaging with the natural world.

Wrong options:

• disconnect: Disconnect means to break a connection, which is contrary to the idea of engaging with nature, making it contextually incorrect.
• disengage: Disengage means to detach or withdraw, which does not align with the positive action of connecting with nature.
• sever: Sever means to cut off or separate, which is also contrary to the idea of maintaining a relationship with nature.