Connection to Nature

Photo by nappy from Pexels

Of all the things I'd been skeptical about, I didn't feel skeptical about this: the wilderness had a clarity that included me.

- Cheryl Strayed, Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail

It’s April, the month we will focus on nature and our connection to it. Now, we don’t have to focus as much as Cheryl Strayed did when she hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 1995, but do we plan on opening our hearts and minds to more time spent outdoors this month and beyond.

Now that we’re officially in spring and the temperatures are on the rise, have you noticed more green sprouting around you? Or have you noticed yellow daffodils blooming in your garden or your neighbors? Recognizing these changes outdoors, and the close attention to detail, is one of the many benefits of spending time outside. We become more mindful. 

The good news – we don’t have to summit Mount Kilimanjaro to notice the beauty of the outside world, or benefit from it. Taking a stroll in a community park, trail or city street can suffice for our nature needs. [But you can of course take it one step further with a planned camping trip].

The great news – these parks and trails are often easily accessible and treasured by our four-legged friends. 

Even better news? Trek Executive Coaching is offering a special opportunity on April 24 to experience Forest Bathing Learn more here.

Photo credit: https://trekcoaching.com/events

Below are five benefits of spending time outside: 

1. Vitamin D Increase: essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, helping to avoid diabetes, cancer and Alzheimer’s.
   
   
2. Better Eye Health: Time away from screens prevents Computer Vision Syndrome (yes, it’s a real thing) – issues caused by staring at your screen too long.
   
   
3. Improved Sleep: Sleep patterns are regulated by an internal body clock (the circadian rhythm) and rhythms are naturally tied to the sun’s schedule. Spending too much time inside – away from natural light and with increased exposure to artificial light, can alter our circadian rhythms, (thus disrupting our sleep patterns).
   
   
4. Good for Mental Health: Spending time in nature has been linked to boosts in serotonin (the “feel good” neurotransmitter) and increased activity in parts of the brain responsible for empathy, emotional stability and love (whereas indoor, urban environments can foster fear and anxiety).
   
   
5. Better Concentration: Children with ADHD focus better after being outside. If you have trouble concentrating, try an outdoor activity to help.

Join us on Instagram at @wise_wellness_guild for all things nature and Mother Earth this month.

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