The healing power of nature has long been established. it’s where we feel most comfortable, even if we don’t always know it – according to Miyazaki. He continues to say that Our physiological functions are still adapted to it: “During everyday life, a feeling of comfort can be achieved if our rhythms are synchronized with those of the environment.”
Throughout our evolution – we have spent 99.9 percent of our time in nature. Today, 90% in the US and 70% of the worldwide population consider urban centers their home. The health implications are serious. Since the age of the Internet, North Americans have become more aggressive, more narcissistic, more distracted, more depressed, less cognitively nimble, and fatter. Interestingly, even during the industrial revolution – scholars were warning against the loss of our connection to nature and the health implications.
Totally connect with nature – feel the ground, touch the leaves, smell the scents and listen to all the sounds. Take it all in and make internal representation of all that naturally comes to you and then notice what you feel. Feel the energy of the world around you and in you. This experience can be your treasure chest of revitalization and the surprise of nature’s gifts as they come forward.
Hang out in the woods
Shower in the greenery
Bring nature home
Visit nature
Happier
Less stress
improves cognition
Reduces depression
Lowers blood pressure
Enhances empathy
Try it - schedule it, take the whole family, and begin to feel the powerful benefits of nature that is freely available to everyone no matter where you are!
May the following be an inspiration to get out in nature. These are articles, books and videos to inspire you. Go Nature!
Forest Bathing
Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing)
Nature Therapy
Science of Nature Therapy
10 ways to get your kids out in nature, and why it matters
connecting kids and nature
Health benefits
30×30 Nature Challenge
Books
Great Outdoor Stores