For all Nature is doing her best each moment to make us well. – Henry David Thoreau
It is truly amazing that our surroundings can make us well. Literally the environment that we are in can make us healthy and happy (or the opposite). It’s no secret that nature can enrich us, but perhaps with Spring upon us we can examine, embrace, and expand the opportunities to improve our well-being physically, mentally, and spiritually through nature.
Nature is the source of our original wellness – it existed before we did and all of our nutrition, activity, medicine, social engagement, and spiritual understanding came from nature. It makes sense, then, that nature continues to heal and connect us body mind and spirit.
Many books and studies have reported on the connections between nature and health. Ever heard of “Forest Bathing?” Shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing” is a Japanese therapy that is now being adopted in the US. It asserts and shows research evidence that immersing yourself in nature, experiencing and walking through nature in a relaxed way brings about calm, rejuvenation, and restoration in many areas of your life.
So how does our environment through nature really interconnect with different the areas of our life and what are the benefits?
Psychologically/Emotionally – Exposure to nature decreases depression and anxiety, improves positive affect and sustained life satisfaction. It improves mindfulness and presence in the moment, leading to decreased impulsivity and increasing calm and focus. Sunlight and Vitamin D lead to mood boosting hormones.
Physically – Being outside leads to movement and exercise which improves strength and other aspects of physical health. Exposure to nature also lowers inflammation and lowers stress hormones. Nature exposure accelerates physical healing.
Socially – Pandemic life has led to isolation for many. Yet with the warmer weather, people are out, talking, engaging, and building back up relationships – all important for our well-being. Also, new research on Awe shows that it is a key ingredient in the healing aspects of nature. Awe in nature exposure leads to generosity, compassion, altruism and prosocial values.
Intellectually – Exposure to nature shows increases in performance and leads to ethical decision making.
Spiritually – Anne Frank wrote, The best remedy for those who are afraid, lonely, or unhappy is to go outside, somewhere where they can be quite alone with the heavens, nature, and God. Sitting in nature instills thoughtfulness, interconnectedness, and peace. It reveals our true relationship with God, others, and ourselves. Quietness in nature allows us to tune into the spiritual voice that nurtures our soul.
When we take the time to be in nature, not only do we heal, but we grow physically, mentally, and spiritually. So find a hiking trail! Sit in a park with friends! Meditate and pray under the trees! Nature heals and brings fullness of life. May Spring bring fruitful growth as we engage with the life around us!
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