Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components of our health and well-being are all rejuvenated and if imbalanced, then even healed by nature. Very instinctively and quite naturally we turn to outdoor, nature-loving activities as a way of relaxing and enhancing our well-being. When we plan our holidays, why is it that without a moments hesitation we turn to the great outdoors? Be it the beach, the mountains or the luscious green countryside? It is because our intuition, whether consciously or subconsciously guides us back to our true source. This is our universe at its most beautiful play, demonstrating that we are intimately connected with, embedded in, and inseparable from the rest of our existence.
Time spent outdoors can be restorative and healing. For many the outdoors is a source of inspiration, self-growth, solace, guidance and rejuvenation. When you’re next amongst nature, take a few moments to appreciate the freshness of the air, the colour of the sky, the chirping of the birds, the feel of the wind against your skin. Experience nature with all of your senses and somewhere from deep within, you will feel a sense of calmness pervade you. Let yourself be soothed by the healers of nature, one of the best prescriptions for our overall health, well-being and healing. As Hippocrates justly stated, “Nature cures, not the physician”.
Once we become consciously aware and tune into nature, we can begin to tap into its abundant healing powers. Begin to see mother nature as an ever-present, trusted close friend and guide, who is always there to share and heal our wounds in this journey of life.
Just like a mother, father or friend, nature is constantly providing us with an array of its own examples and teachings that can aid in our own healing. For example, nature provides beautiful instances of hope where there appears to be none through demonstrating that light follows darkness, sunshine follows rain and spring follows winter. The constancy of the seasons demonstrate stability when all else may be crumbling. Like the strong and sturdy tree, nature teaches us to remain grounded, strong and to stand tall through all of life’s obstacles. The grand and graceful tree teaches us of the beauty of change, adaptation and evolving gracefully no matter what the conditions. These wondrous examples are taught to us by nature as a reminder that through our hardships and triumphs, everything is momentary and that these moments too shall pass.
Even when we are in our deepest and most darkest of moments; nature demonstrates the capability that each of us has within us to empower ourselves to get up and continue. Nature displays strength and powerful regenerative capabilities to heal damage. When we look at the damage caused by fire, earthquakes, lightening and floods, one can find signs of new growth and new life amongst these calamities. Nature teaches us how to survive despite the strongest forces and challenge that we may face.
Looking to nature as our greatest teacher can be powerful and humbling. There is so much to learn from our existence, if only we stopped to look around us. Nature’s love for us is selfless, abundant and unconditional. It constantly gives so much without expecting anything in return. When we’re sweltering in the heat, we turn to the trees for shade, when we require darkness for sleep: nature provides nightfall, when we require warmth and heat we bask in the sun.
In the words of Einstein:
Look deep, deep into nature, and then you will understand everything betterShaylini Somani is a qualified Reiki practitioner, columnist and feature writer, holistic health and well-being coach.
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