Life is all about connection. That’s why we modeled our philosophy of Mind – Body – Life on this principle: everything is connected. The thing is, while we are natural beings, it’s all too easy to disconnect with our natural selves.
In Ayurveda, it is taught that the natural environment is an extension of our body and our consciousness. Like any other body part, it requires care and attention. Connecting with nature is intrinsic to regaining balance between the body, mind and the environment.
Interacting with nature offers real benefits to our mental health and wellbeing, including reduced stress, decreased pain and inflammation, improved circulation, plus positive feelings of emotional balance and stability. Connecting with ourselves (a part of nature) is key: all it takes is quiet time and green space.
Here are some tips on how to (re)connect with Mother Earth:
Breathe deeply
Breathe in, breathe out, repeat. There’s really nothing to it, yet we so often forget the power of oxygenation. Take long, deep, satisfying breaths, filling your lungs with fresh air and energy.
Practice mindfulness
Absorb the world around: be mindful of the sights, smells, sounds that surround you; notice how your body feels as you move; feel the warmth of the sun on your face, the tingle of air on your skin, the different textures on the ground below. Engage all your senses to fully experience the power of nature.
In the daytime, let solar fuel your soul. Visualize the sun’s energy infusing your cells with rejuvenating light. At night, look to the stars for guidance and power as you tap into the power of the moon to experience feelings of deeper connection to the universe and all things living within it.
Get outside or bring nature in!
Go barefoot, spend time near water, take a stroll through the woods or a park. Any green space will do…or create your own! Bring nature indoors by planting herbs or flowers in your garden or in pots on your balcony, fill your space with houseplants, open up your windows to let in fresh air and sunlight.
Spend as much time in nature as you can, and try using some of these techniques to help you become healthier and happier in your everyday life.