Getting back to nature.

I'm sure you are aware of the benefits of being out in nature. Every second article is telling you to go hug a tree or do some forest bathing. That's all well and good for those people who have access to a forest but what about people who don't? I'm very lucky. I live on the edge of a National Park and have made really good use of it this winter; the perfect time for bush walking and hiking. I don't know how much use our membership will get in summer because...you know...deadly snakes...but I do intend to make the most of the walking trails whilst the weather is cold.

The beauty of the park takes my breath away every single time I am there. Whether I am going for a walk or just there to eat at the Inn, I always find the sights, sounds and smells tickle my senses and make me feel like I am a million miles away. The smell of the bush, especially after the rain is a smell that immediately takes me out of my head and into my body. It is earthy, and "eucalypty" (is that even a word?) and there is an underlying smell of decay which may sound like it should smell disgusting but is actually quite comforting; knowing that the cycle of life continues even in the midst of all the chaos going on in this world.

Photo Credit: Amanda Harwood

Photo Credit: Amanda Harwood

Photo Credit: Amanda Harwood

Spending time in the bush gives me a deep sense of connection. I can feel my stress and anxiety ebbing away as soon as I step foot outside my car and the more steps I take, the more relaxed and connected I feel. It reinvigorates me so that when I get back home , I feel more able to deal with whatever is thrown at me next. So, how can you get that same feeling of connection?

I know I am lucky. I live a seven minute drive from a National Park and have a ten minute walk to the beach. I have a copious amount of nature around me, despite the amount of building also being done. If you're not in an area which gives you access to nature then you need to make your own connection. It could be as simple as having a herb garden on your balcony; one where you tend to its needs and get your hands dirty. If you have a local park, then go and sit down there. Even in the most dismal park there is sure to be a tree or two and a patch of grass. If you have the space, plant some natives or plants that attract bees. Can you hire some space at an allotment or volunteer to help in your local community garden? At a minimum, try to grow an indoor plant. Remembering that we are part of the whole and connected to the earth is so important to the survival of the planet and ourselves.

History has shown us that being disconnected from the planet, thinking that we hold dominion over the Earth has been our downfall. Indigenous tribes from all over the world have always been aware of what modern day people have forgot - that we are just caretakers of this planet. No matter what we do or say, at the end of it all, we are all interconnected and no matter how may fillers you have or how much exercise you do, we will all go back to the earth, be it in a box or as ashes. This is one thing you can be certain of.

Go back to nature - reconnect. It not only benefits your mental and emotional wellbeing, but it also benefits the environment. It is a win-win situation and let's face it, in this day and age we need all the win-win situations we can get.

Until next time...

Photo Credit: Amanda Harwood

" I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery - air, mountains, trees, people . I thought, 'This is what it is to be happy.'"

...Slyvia Plath - The Bell Jar...

Photo Credit: Amanda Harwood