- The Facts:Multiple studies show how simply being in nature can alleviate a host of mental health issues, as well as several different biological health issues.
- Reflect On:Perhaps it is a lack of nature in our lives that is contributing to our sense of disconnection and unfulfillment?
I recently completed a 2-day hike along the Juan de Fuca trail on beautiful Vancouver Island off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. Not that this was anything extreme by any means, it was just enough to leave me feeling entirely refreshed, recharged, rejuvenated and connected to myself, to my friends and to the beauty and aliveness of all the nature around me. I feel strongly that a large component of what made this trek so therapeutic was the fact that there was no cell service so the use of a cell phone was not needed except to take a few photos with. Even though this wasn’t necessarily an easy hike, I had a tremendous amount of energy to keep me going and the amount of mental clarity was truly astounding. If you are someone who struggles with meditation, the act of simply walking in nature could be what you are looking for. It’s hard not to be present while in the company of beautiful trees, ferns, moss, fungus and all of the little woodland creatures and chirping birdies.
Forest Therapy
Yes, people actually pay to go on guided walks through the forest in an effort to get relief from what ails them. While to many this may sound completely absurd, many of us are living in cities, and not only far away from forests, but disconnected from the concept altogether. Living in the hustle and bustle of the city can be a great distraction from how you are really feeling until it’s not. This is exactly where forest therapy can come in handy. Sometimes, believe it or not, things really can be that simple, reconnecting to the earth and the life force energy of it can reinvigorate us in ways we may have never imagined.
Science has already shown us how hiking in nature literally changes our brain chemistry and how even just simply strolling through a forest can drastically lower thoughts of rumination. Again, it’s very difficult to be wrapped up in negative thoughts while amidst the power of trees.