Many of us know the benefits of being outdoors: the runners, hikers, kayakers, cyclists, and so many more. Nature can bring us alive and soothe us. Even most music that helps us fall asleep or soundtracks in our yoga classes will have sounds of nature. Our whole being is brought to a place of wellness through the healing of nature. Holistic wellness is something many of us are striving for.
The physical side of us needs the air, the serenity, and the life that nature provides. Physical time outdoors helps us build some of those happy hormones we hear about. The pleasure of being outdoors boosts your dopamine. Just being in the sun can increase serotonin and endorphin levels, too. From a neurological standpoint, being outdoors has the potential to release chemicals in. our brains that can make us feel happier, less stressed, and more able to manage our day to day lives.
The emotional side of us is also soothed by the rhythmic sounds of nature, by the breeze of the wind or the coolness of the air. The muse of creativity is found in the amazing diversity of nature. Even the sense of perseverance is inspired with every tree root and dandelion pushing its way through the soil. We find connection to the earth through our feet in the sand, playing in the mud, or gardening in our backyards. That childlike glee is sparked when we go to the beach, ride the waters on a boat, or float with the waves looking at the sky. Just by being outdoors we are boosting our happiness levels.
The mental side of us is often calmed by the whole experience. When we slow down and sense the array of colors, the brightness of the sun, or the coziness of a grey wet day, we can feel calm and peaceful. There is clarity that comes from staring across the lake or listening to a creek. The moment of awakening with every bird song, squirl chirp, wind breeze through the trees; all bringing us back to ourselves.
And the spiritual or energetic, side of us, becomes alive when we connect with nature. Connected by being present in the moment and feeling the vast diversity of life. Sometimes for only one fleeting moment, we feel a sense of wholeness, that we are not alone but a part of the amazing array of life. In this moment, we become part of something bigger than just ourselves. The most beautiful part of nature is that it heals in the simplest ways. We can feel this holistic healing right from the windows of our house.
This month, challenge yourself to take a moment and just listen to the sounds around you and focus on those sounds that are beyond city chatter. Schedule a walk outdoors and pay attention to what you can feel, hear, see, smell, and touch. When we greet every day and are thankful for the rain that nourishes and the sun that warms us, we can feel a positive difference.
Laurel Collins, MA in Indigenous Studies
Walmsley EFAP