Why nature?

#nature #getoutside #health #community #relationships

 In nature, nothing is perfect and everything is perfect. Trees can be contorted, bent in weird ways, and they're still beautiful. –Alice Walker

Look for nature in the sunshine, the clouds, your backyard, the neighborhood, forest preserves, park districts, green parks, blue parks (water), and state and national parks. I’m sure you can think of a few more natural spots. When you find a spot for yourself, try experiencing nature using all 5 of your senses. What does it feel like, taste like, smell like, sound like, look like? This brings you right into the present moment along with many other benefits of nature.

Sometimes when I get outside, I take a slow breath in and out and feel the calm settling over me. Do you think being out in nature is one of your top coping mechanisms? When the going gets tough, is your first reaction to get outside and enjoy nature?  Right on top of other healthy suggestions, nature is good for healing, reflecting, and calming. Are you able to let go of your busyness and slow down enough, or be quiet enough, to appreciate what nature helps us with?

Fun facts about nature: (and why it helps.)

• The more bio-diverse (many different species) in the environment around you, the more health benefits you feel.
• There is an order to the amount of benefit you get from being exposed to nature. Forest Þ bio-diverse environment Þ green space Þ looking out the window Þ looking at a picture Þ no view.
• Nature Deficit Disorder is a disorder resulting from a lack of exposure to nature, first discussed by the author of Last Child in the Woods and The Nature Principle,
•  Richard Louv.
• Studies in Japan refer to a phenomenon called forest bathing. Trees and other plants produce an airborne chemical called phytoncides. Inhaling these compounds can boost the immune system and lower blood pressure.
• The way you pay attention to nature, your focus is broad rather than specific, called undirected attention. Undirected attention is related to reduced anxiety and stress.
• Nature is a distraction from discomfort or pain.
• I also thought that feeling safe in nature plays a role in the number of benefits you receive.

Benefits of nature and why you care. You are worthy, pay attention to how nature helps your well-being.

• Reduces anxiety, stress, and blood pressure
• Improves cognitive ability (our brain function) and the immune system
• Improves your mood, energy level, ability to focus, sleep
• Allows you the luxury of realizing that you are a small part of something much bigger. The miracles of life are held in nature.

Ways to connect:

• Hike or bike
• Take a walk
• Have a picnic outdoors
• Find a nature buddy
• Grow your own herbs or vegetables
• Look at the stars
• Watch birds
• Watch a sunrise or sunset
• Learn about local wildlife, plants, trees
• Take up a new outdoor hobby
• Eat fresh produce from a local farmstand
• Find local arboretums, trails, parks

Big sighs are often helpful! Take a long breath through your nose and sigh your breath out through your mouth, let go of your stress, and absorb the benefits of nature! Nature has the capacity to improve your well-being.

Where are your favorite places to get outdoors?

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#nature #outside #forestbathing #purpose #breath
You are amazing! You have a unique gift to share with the world.

 All my best,

Nancy

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About Nancy Whitman

Nancy Whitman is a certified yoga therapist (C-IAYT), yoga teacher, and author. She specializes in empowering you to improve your wellbeing. Nancy is registered with the Yoga Alliance as ERYT-500 and is certified through ACE as a personal trainer, health coach, and fitness instructor. She has a Master's degree in Education, MaEd.