Embracing Nature Through Simple Practices (and My Favorite Natural Oases in Jasper)
You know the feeling: A gentle breeze rustles leaves in the wind, and you're swept up in the passing of the seasons. The soothing melody of a birdsong trickles in through the open window, and you find your heart filled with hope. The vibrant hues of a sunset inspire you with gratitude for the days behind and motivation for the days ahead. Nature has the innate ability to captivate our souls.
But nature is more than a feast for the senses--It's an elixir for our well-being. A strong relationship with nature can improve your mental health, bolster your physical health, and light up your connection to your spirit.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the benefits of incorporating nature into your daily routine. I'll offer simple, accessible tips for connecting with the natural world in your everyday life. And be sure to read all the way to the end to catch some of my favorite spots to commune with nature in Jasper, Indiana.
The Importance of Nature in Holistic Living
Why is it that nature seems to affect us so deeply? Simply put, it's because we are nature. Going into nature isn't about entering a world that is separate from ourselves. It's about returning to ourselves at our most intrinsic level. Embracing the natural world reconnects us to the roots of our being.
Mental Health Benefits of Nature
Scientific research shows that exposure to natural environments reduces stress hormones, alleviates anxiety, and enhances mood by increasing serotonin levels. Studies often reference the positive mental health effects of "green spaces" and "blue spaces." The mere sight of lush green plant life and the azure of natural bodies of water has a powerful effect on our mood.
Physical Health Benefits of Nature
Engaging in physical activity in nature increases your intake of fresh air. Breathing in clean air cleanses your lungs, improves your sleep, and can even help with better digestion.
Spiritual Benefits of Nature
As I touched on before, there's nothing like communing with nature to remind you of who you truly are. Observing the beauty of a blooming dogwood or even the small potted plant that sits on your desk can inspire inner reflection and a connection to something greater than ourselves.
Simple Tips to Connect With Nature Daily
A profound connection with nature requires integrating it into the fabric of our daily lives. But that doesn't mean we have to abandon our homes and our jobs and start living off the grid. The healing energy of nature is strong enough to make an impact when we honor it in even the simplest of ways. Here are just a few to get you started:
Take Your Morning Routine Outside
Even just a few minutes of fresh air upon waking can substantially impact the rest of your day. If you have a morning meditation or yoga practice, consider taking it out to the porch. If a cup of joe is more your style, consider pouring it into a travel mug and taking it for a few paces around the block.
Try Grounding
If you don't have time for a nature walk, simply putting foot to earth can be a quick way to achieve balance and harmony. Find a quiet outdoor spot, remove your shoes, and stand barefoot on the earth, grass, sand, or soil. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and notice how you feel. Better yet, pair your grounding technique with a visualization or somatic exercise like the ones here.
Go Green in Your Workspace
It can be tough to feel one with nature if you work in an office environment or have an indoor sedentary job. A simple potted plant, water fountain, or other nature-inspired decor can bring a sense of calm and vitality to your workspace.
Embark on a New Hobby
Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often forget how much is going on in the natural world around us. Grab a pair of binoculars to start birdwatching, plant a garden in your backyard, gaze at the stars to learn new constellations, or even take a moment to watch the clouds pass through the sky. Anything that gets you stepping outside on a daily basis is a step in the right direction.
Jasper's Nurturing Outdoor Spaces
Getting outside doesn't have to be complicated. Jasper, Indiana is home to parks, gardens, and trails that make accessing the healing power of nature effortless. Here are just a few of my favorite spots to revel in the area’s natural beauty:
Jasper Riverwalk & Dave Buehler Plaza
This serene plaza and park area are great for relaxing or enjoying playful physical activity, from the picturesque gazebo to the scenic 2.1-mile paved Patoka Riverwalk. Whether you're out for a boat ride or simply gazing from the riverbank, the therapeutic effect of water creates a revitalizing experience.
The Parklands
Stroll along two miles of winding walking trails, traverse the signature illuminated bridge under the stars at night, and explore soothing water cascades. The Parklands boasts 75 acres of woods, wetlands, and recreation.
Birk and Berg Bike Park
If you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for a new hobby, biking at Bike and Berg Park could be your next haven. Twist and turn through an enchanting wooded area with trails for beginners and bike aficionados alike. There's nothing like an exhilarating bike ride to immerse you in the present, connect mind and body, and practice mindfulness in nature.
Embracing nature's touch can awaken your mind, rejuvenate your body, and nourish your spirit. If you're eager to delve deeper into a lifestyle that encourages holistic well-being and self-discovery, Élan Integrative Mind Body Solutions is here to guide you. My 12-month counseling program gives you access to my private nature spot. We’ll have two sessions in an exclusive nature preserve with private winding trails, a tiny cabin, sprawling gardens, and a lovely pond. Book a consultation now to embark on a journey that honors nature's enduring wisdom and returns you to your own.