Picture this: a sunlit meadow, a gentle breeze playing with your hair, chirping birds in the background. If you focus on this scene, it will relax you. Why? Because nature has a calming effect on our nervous systems. Nature can work its magic on us, filling our souls with joy and healing our spirits. In this bustling world of screens and schedules, let's take a moment to explore how nature can be the ultimate healer.
1. The Therapeutic Power of Fresh Air
There's something about fresh air that invigorates both body and mind. Whether strolling through a city park or hiking in the mountains, inhaling clean air floods your body with oxygen, boosting energy levels and improving your overall well-being. It's like a natural reset button, flushing out stress and anxiety.
When you are outside, be sure to take some deep breaths. Deep breathing activates our parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is what helps our body relax. Adding deep breathing exercises to your day will help reduce anxiety overall which makes every challenge you face easier to deal with.
2. Mood Lifting Sunshine
The sun is our very own mood booster. Basking in the warm glow of sunlight feels fantastic and has tangible health benefits. Sunlight boosts the production of serotonin. This hormone stabilizes our mood. It also affects our appetite and digestion. Maintaining good levels of serotonin is essential for our well-being.
The sun is also a wonderful source of Vitamin D. Studies show that most Americans are Vitamin D deficient. We are inside more than ever with the artificial lights of our phones, tablets, tvs and computers. Sun exposure prompts our skin to produce vitamin D, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones, supporting the immune system, and, yes, lifting our spirits.
3. Nature's Stress-Busting Symphony
Take a moment to close your eyes and listen when outside. Tune out all the modern life noise. Listen for the gentle rustle of leaves, the wind blowing, a babbling brook, the birds harmonizing in the trees – it's nature's symphony, and you're the honored listener. Studies show that immersing yourself in natural sounds reduces cortisol levels, the infamous stress hormone. Long term exposure to cortisol can put you at a higher risk for many healthy problems including spikes in your blood sugar.
If you can’t get outside, then pull up a nature sounds video on YouTube and have it playing in the background while you work. I find listening to the running water of a stream or the waves of the ocean particularly calming. When you are working on a stressful work assignment, try having these nature sounds playing and see if it helps you. Allow the calming soundtrack of nature to be your antidote to a hectic day.
4. The Art of Forest Bathing
Forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980’s to combat the stress and anxiety facing the population at the time. This practice involves immersing yourself in a forest environment to improve your mental and physical well-being. It can improve the oxygen levels in your brain.
Forests emit natural compounds called phytoncides, which are believed to lower stress hormones and boost immune function. A stroll in the woods can be a therapeutic sensory experience. There is so much to hear, smell and touch. You notice and sense things instead of judging or evaluating.
5. Grounding with Earth's Energy
Ever feel a sense of peace when walking barefoot on grass or soil? That's grounding, and it's more than just a pleasant sensation. The Earth is a vast source of energy, and making direct contact with it, known as earthing. This can profoundly affect stress reduction and improved sleep. It’s also been shown that grounding acts as an anti-inflammatory for our bodies. So take off your shoes and let the Earth's energy flow through you.
6. Nature's Kaleidoscope of Colors
Research about color psychology shows how different colors affect us. Colors can significantly impact our emotions, and nature is a vibrant palette of healing hues. Cool colors such as blue and green have a calming effect on us. The color yellow is associated with warmth and joy. Whether it's the calming blues of the ocean, the soothing greens of a forest, or the warm yellows of a sunrise, nature's visual richness has the power to uplift our spirits and create a sense of serenity.
7. Connecting with Flora and Fauna
The flora and fauna in your area give you an opportunity to connect with nature on a different level. Connecting with nature through flora and fauna offers many benefits, enhancing both physical and mental well-being. The presence of plants and animals can elevate mood, improve focus, and increase feelings of happiness and tranquility.
We can’t always touch the plants and animals we see as we walk outside but you may be able to hug a tree. The concept of tree hugging came into mainstream media when people were trying to save trees from being cut down but tree hugging is also a spiritual ritual in certain communities. Tree hugging allows us the mental benefits of connecting with something that is so grounded, strong and supportive to the environment. Try hugging a tree today.
8. The Healing Art of Gardening
If you have a patch of soil or a windowsill, consider gardening. The act of planting, nurturing, and watching plants grow can be incredibly therapeutic. Not only does it bring you closer to nature, but it also provides a tangible sense of accomplishment as you witness the fruits (or veggies) of your labor.
There is also research that shows gardening actually helps with loneliness and depression. It can give you a sense of connection, purpose and keep you in the present moment. When gardening, you are focused on your routine of plant care. This pulls you into the now rather than worrying about the future or the past.
9. Nature's Playground
Exercise doesn't have to be a chore when you're surrounded by the great outdoors. Whether a brisk jog along a nature trail, or a leisurely bike ride through the countryside, nature provides a joyful playground for physical activity. Bid farewell to the monotony of the gym and welcome the exhilarating embrace of the open air.
Remember you are not too old to play. Play is essential for our health and well-being. Playing outside gives you the benefits of being in the fresh air, in nature and the benefits of play. So kick a ball around, play frisbee, jump rope or climb on the jungle gym for no other reason than to just play outside and see how much lighter you feel.
Nature's Ever-Present Embrace
Nature is a constant, ever-present source of healing and joy. It encourages us to slow down, breathe deeply, and take in the simple pleasures that surround us. So, let's make a pact – to step outside, embrace the sunshine, dance with the wind, and let nature's cheerful symphony serenade us toward a brighter, more balanced life.
Resources
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-forest-therapy-can-be-good-for-your-body-and-mind
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10105021/
https://brhp.org/nature-color-theory-the-impact-on-mental-health-and-wellbeing/