In this modern day and age, it seems as if our lives are busier and louder than they have ever been in decades past. With so much going on, it’s easy to get caught up in mental hyperactivity, constantly analyzing, planning, prepping, and checking off endless to-do lists. It can feel like our mind is on a treadmill that continues to run faster and faster, so we need to hurry to keep up.
As if that weren’t stressful enough, we are also bombarded by a constant stream of information coming into our awareness from many different sources, including social media, traditional news outlets, and the people with whom we interact on a daily basis. Unfortunately, much of that input is of a negative nature, which only adds to our feelings of stress and overwhelm.
Fortunately, there is a simple way to escape the stress, and that is by seeking out more natural settings. Spending time in nature is a wonderful way to “lose your mind,” in other words, the chronic overthinking and mental hyperactivity, and “find your soul,” returning to a space of peacefulness and inner connection.
Sitting quietly for 30 minutes in a natural setting can even provide many wonderful health benefits, such as reducing blood pressure, calming the nervous system, soothing away feelings of stress and worry, and it can even improve your self-esteem and promote a sense of genuine happiness. It can even rejuvenate your energy so much that you feel as rested as you would from getting a full night of sleep. As a result, your ability to think clearly is greatly enhanced, which continues to benefit you even after you have returned to your normal activities.
If you happen to live in a rural area, then you can easily step out of your back door to find a quiet natural setting to enjoy. You may already have a garden or a pond where you can soak in the soothing sounds and sights of nature. However, if you live in a busy city, it can be a bit more challenging to get back to nature, but you may be able to take advantage of a nearby forest, beachfront, or park.
Another good option is to bring a bit of nature into your personal space. Create a small area in your home that is filled with live plants and photos of natural settings such as gardens, lakes, oceans, waterfalls, or deserts. Surround yourself with artwork depicting flowers, birds, dragonflies, and bees.
Regardless of how and where you connect with nature, it’s most important that you focus on being fully present in the moment. Set aside any scattered or troubling thoughts and silence all electronic devices. Breathe deeply and focus only on what is before you. Watch the interesting species of wildlife around you, feel the gentle breeze on your skin, and give yourself permission to stop doing and just be. Within minutes you should feel a sense of peacefulness returning. Your body will relax, your mind will quiet, and that inner connection will be restored.
