The benefits of spending time in nature
Photography by Danielle Ann Rose @bydanielleannrose
Spending time in nature and its beautiful, calming essence has undeniable benefits for both our physical and mental well-being. Spending time outside promotes mindfulness, reduces stress, and boosts our overall mood. Helping us to appreciate the magic and beauty in everything that surrounds us, allowing us to find solace, inspiration and perspective
Nature silently gives us the permission we seek to be still, present and restful. Allowing us to reconnect with ourselves and our inner thoughts, offering an opportunity for introspection and self-reflection
I have always felt that our relationship with ourselves is heavily linked to our relationship with Mother Earth. When we focus on nurturing our connection to nature, we simultaneously strengthen our connection with ourselves as well
Whenever I just sit and be present in nature, I am reminded of how beautiful life is and how indescribably magic the world can feel even if it is just for that moment. Nature is a gentle embrace that grounds us, clears our cluttered minds, and grants us the perspective we often seek in our fast-paced, technology-driven lives
Something I love about spending time in nature is that I almost always find myself having a moment of clarity. A moment when I remember how big and beautiful the world is and just how small and insignificant I am amongst it all. A moment when I start feeling optimistic and thankful for life again, rather than spending too much time inside, isolated, feeling like the problems in my mind are far larger than they actually are. That type of behaviour only breeds more like it and nature allows me to break that cycle and step out into the world again
Being in nature helps us get out of our comfort zones and experience life, it encourages us to meet new people and connect to our community. “Getting outdoors” is the perfect opportunity to reach out to old friends to catch up, or to invite new friends to a picnic in the park or a beach walk
The surrounding intricacies of nature, such as the sounds of birds chirping, the feeling of a breeze rushing through your hair, the smell of a forest and the sight of a sunset, all have a calming effect, that reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Being in nature exposes us to natural sunlight, which boosts our vitamin D levels and strengthens our immune system. Regular time spent in nature has been linked to improved cognitive function and creativity
Engaging in outdoor activities promotes physical fitness and a healthier lifestyle, which serves as a refreshing break from day-to-day madness. Immersing ourselves in nature renews our spirit, rejuvenates our body, and nurtures our connection with Mother Earth, all of which are necessary for our mental well-being to thrive
The act of “grounding” is when you place your bare feet and/or hands onto the Earth, whether that be grass, dirt, or the ocean floor, anywhere that gives you direct contact. Allowing yourself a moment of stillness and connection
Grounding is a restorative and transformative practice that allows us to reconnect with what truly matters; ourselves and our environment. Taking a moment to step back from the wild world we live in, to gift ourselves a moment of peace and quiet. Nature has the ability to soothe our aching hearts and remind us of our true, innate power
Don’t be afraid to sit alone in an open space without a screen in front of your face. Look around and look up. Feel the Earth beneath you and breathe in the fresh air around you. Don’t underestimate the powerful healing energy Mother Nature has to offer, she has a way of reminding us how simple and good life gets to be
