"I just went for a walk and finally decided to stay outside until sunset because I thought going out was really going in." ~ John Muir
Somewhere, hidden in my collection of childhood memories, I remember this little card game with random, uplifting activities. I do not remember how they went my way and I do not remember that they stayed here for a long time, but I do remember that it was exhilarating to just read them through.
It is interesting what things our minds file away – and although I am a little fascinated that these cards deserve a place, I am not at all surprised that memories of whole days in the forest are near our house firmly rooted as a child.
It felt like there were magical secrets on every branch and hidden at every step along the forest floor.
Over the years, I don't know that I've ever felt as happy as when I messed up a pair of hiking boots.
Adjusting to the natural world around us and feeling good go hand in hand. This is a simple truth that most of us are naturally aware of and are intuitively drawn to. However, as more and more of our natural landscape is forced to admit concrete, sidewalks and buildings, our sections mix less with untouched fields and forests.
The natural world provides a fast and reliable way to effectively treat anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions. In a world that seems to increasingly focus on technological routine and gadgets, it may seem too easy to bask in the gentle and balancing support that comes from and within our natural world – and therefore may not always be serious as an effective stress be taken. Management solution.
Even if we don't step outside our back door to a hectare of land, we can integrate the benefits of spending time with nature by looking for less cultivated soil during our daily routine. Walking through a park on the way to work or having an outdoor lunch can quickly convey a rewarding feeling of peace and tranquility.
Apart from our own intuitive consciousness, there are many studies that point to the restorative effects of nature – both for our mind and for our body. It has a quick way to move through busy, persistent chatter and change our thoughts and perspectives.
Watching animals gathering food on the ground or hearing rain or birds can immediately put us in a meditative space. These experiences offer us the opportunity to connect with the ups and downs of our entire natural world in a whole-body way – at the same time to become aware of our presence and to lose ourselves in the same energetic rhythm.
The natural world is in constant change. It sheds light on our own dynamic life events and gives us the opportunity to be simple regardless of our individual struggles or situations. Quiet and connected.
I remember this card game from my childhood …
If I were to create a new deck of cards to promote connection with our natural world, below are some of the activities that would be included.
Step away from electronics.
Spend some time outside the TV, computer, and phone each day. Spend time doing things you love outdoors – read a book, take a walk, or sit on the porch and calmly connect with your surroundings. See if you notice a difference in the way you feel.
Grow a plant.
While plants are usually easier to care for (need less time for them) and less communicative than animals, we can still maintain meaningful connections to these living, conscious beings. In addition to the feel-good energy that plants bring into a room, they can also measurably remove unwanted material from the room air and increase the oxygen content.
Get to know a tree.
Similar to houseplants, trees have a wise and knowing presence about them. There is so much going on in the plant community that is happening under our radar. While I appreciate all living things, there are certain trees that I notice more when I go for an outdoor walk, and for various reasons I feel that I know better.
Choose a tree (or more) on your daily path to observe a little deeper. If you are able to, sit with it for a few minutes and say thank you for the majestic vitality and rooted way of life.
Eat wild food.
Integrate something from your garden or a nearby area – dandelion, chickweed, maybe a few mulberries – into a meal and appreciate the rich supply of nutrients from the depths of the soil.
Observe micro worlds.
During class, we did this fun activity, where groups of students took a few minutes to look at a section of the floor and then took the rest of the class on a tour of the area. They indicated ants that were busy at work, worms that nourished the ground, and other small creatures and plants. Under our feet is a huge and busy world that you can occasionally adjust to.
If you move in the other direction, you will see more expansive worlds.
Stretch out on a blanket under the sky and watch the movement – of trees, clouds, birds. Notice the endless expanse of stars at night. Allow yourself to dream about what is out there, beyond our existence, both small and large.
Walk.
Try to include an outdoor walk in your everyday life. A short walk can be very relaxing. Feel the warmth of the continuing sun. Let the wind dance around your body and your being. For a natural reflexology massage, try removing your shoes and walking barefoot on uneven ground.
Sleep outside.
Breathing fresh air all night long is a rejuvenating pleasure that many of us only occasionally experience on a camping trip. If the weather and the environment allow it, we can do it without packing or leaving the house. If your home has a garden, plan to spend a few nights outdoors. Set up your tent or just lay out a sleeping bag and drift away under a sky full of stars … and endless possibilities at dream time.
One of my favorite things about the balancing paths of the natural world is that it is available to all of us! Even if you're not drawn to packing your camping gear out in the open for a few nights, you can still step outside and enjoy a few moments to remedy the connection.
About Carrie Ciula
Carrie Ciula is the author of the Little Book of Great Living, which examines nine key elements of well-being and offers a comprehensive approach to restoring balance in our lives. Visit her at carrieciula.com or connect with her via Facebook or Instagram.
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