Mindfulness in Nature

Imagine a life without growth. Now, visualize all the ways that nature reflects the amazing process of growing and flourishing. Flowers bloom, trees spring new leaves, clouds dance, leaves sway in the wind, the sun radiates light, the sky changes color, cats lounge on front porches, and dogs wag their tails.

This is an intentional practice of taking time out of your daily routine to go outside for a stroll, walk, jog or bike ride to give your full attention to everything you see around you. Mindfulness in nature offers an immediate unplug from your thoughts.

Nature has a powerful way of helping us to press the reset button when we need it. Reminding us that life exists and that all is calm, if we choose to focus on calm rather than chaos.

Before becoming more aware of my own struggle with depression and anxiety, I managed my stress and symptoms through photography. I would go on walks and engage in a practice I like to call 'tree gazing' which is where I play the game of looking for the trees I find most stunning and perfect.

Eventually this coping strategy turned into a practice that I would incorporate into my exercise routine or whenever I was outside. Focusing my attention on all of the beauty and life around me was a remedy for shifting my emotional state to feel instant relief, peace, and even joy because the wonders of the world are truly magnificent.

Living in the Pacific Northwest has inspired a new tradition for me to give close attention to the intricacies of the marvelous flowers I notice during my walks.

Praise Nature! Practice mindfulness.

To read more on nature, visit: http://www.rootandconnect.com/blog/2014/6/20/the-life-of-a-tree

For more info on benefits of nature therapy, visit: https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/types/econature-therapy