Many of us now live in fast-paced urban landscapes or busy suburban neighborhoods, spending most of our time in front of our computers, tvs, and phones.
While it’s easy to be disconnected from nature, studies show that staying connected to nature is critical for both our health and happiness. From fighting depression to stress, and even fatigue, there are so many benefits to getting outside.
Remember that nature isn’t always a destination; it can also be found in your own backyard!
Whether it’s exploring a local park or finding solace tending to plants in the garden, we can celebrate our connection with nature and the changing seasons without having to go too far beyond our front door.
Here’s how you can build your own connection with nature:
Connect with nature using all your senses
Take time to stop and smell the flowers.
Slowing down and taking time to use all your senses to connect to nature allows both your body and mind to decompress.
Start by closing your eyes and taking a few moments to relax. Feel the sunshine and wind on your face and notice your body relaxing.
Get your family involved
Make nature a part of your daily routine by getting your family involved!
Go for a hike at a nearby park, grow your own veggies, or head out for an evening walk around your neighbourhood, taking time to observe nature around you.
Growing up surrounded by nature can do wonders for children’s physical and mental well-being. Time in nature also teaches children the importance of their actions, and what effects they may have on the surrounding natural world.
Bringing nature to you
Access to natural places may be difficult depending on how or where you live.
Try bringing nature to you!
If you have a garden or balcony, think about how you can make the most of it. Grow flowers, vegetables, or set up a bird feeder to enhance the sights and sounds around you.
Even watching and listening to nature through documentaries, art, and sound can offer some of the benefits of being in nature, including relaxation and evoking positive emotions.
Exercise outdoors
Heading outdoors can help reduce anxiety, improve your sleep, and calm your mind.
Plus, you’ll get a boost of fresh air and Vitamin D! Leave your headphones at home and try new routes that bring you closer to green spaces and moving water.
Make a positive difference
Caring for something can be a great way to make you feel good!
Taking care of nature helps you feel like you’re doing your part, and that can make you feel more positive all around.
Make a conscious habit of things like:
- eliminating single-use plastic
- saving water
- turning off lights
- cycling / walking instead of driving
It can make such an important impact.
Every one of us has the ability to make a positive difference, and if all of us make a commitment to do our little bit of good. by critical mass, it will have a big impact.
Nature is for everyone, and it’s important to remember that it isn’t always about going off the beaten path.
From forests and parks, to window boxes and even house plants, you can find nature wherever you are!