Getting Back to Nature

The Japanese have a word for spending time in nature called shinrin-roku. Translated this phrase means: forest bathing. What a wonderful way to view being in the rejuvenating outdoors. The idea is simple…take time to be mindful and present in a natural environment soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells.

Our ancient ancestors on every continent spent every moment communing with Mother Earth.  Today it is common to go days or even weeks without ever stepping foot on the ground. Concrete does not count. Often, we leave our homes, jump in our cars, drive to work, spend all day long at the office, and drive back home without ever touching grass or dirt.

In our fast-paced, chaotic world many have lost touch with nature and its healing benefits when we need it more than ever.  Spending time outside among the trees, in a meadow, in a park, or by a lake is like hitting the reset button for our minds.  Even a quick stroll in a green space can lift your mood and make you feel more relaxed.  Nature helps calm the mind and relax the body. Unlike the constant stimuli of urban environments, it offers a sensory experience that encourages relaxation and mindfulness, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility.

Physically being in nature helps lower those pesky cortisol levels that make us feel on edge. I recently spoke on the phone with a stressed-out colleague. I told him to do something completely radical: go outside in the backyard, take off your shoes and socks, and stand barefoot on the grass for ten minutes. He called me the next day to tell me how much better he felt, and with a laugh asked me what kind of witchcraft I practiced. It is known as grounding. Studies show that connecting with the earth’s natural electric charge can promote better sleep and reduce inflammation and stress.

Spending time in nature has been found to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. It helps people feel less overwhelmed by their thoughts and more emotionally balanced. Exposure to natural beauty can elevate feelings of happiness, inspire awe, and create a deeper sense of connection with the world. Nature’s soothing effects can help reset the nervous system and encourage emotional clarity and positivity.

Some studies even show that being among trees boosts your immune system. Trees release something called phytoncides, which are natural compounds that help plants fight off germs. When you breathe in these phytoncides, it can stimulate the production of white blood cells, which play a vital role in immune function by attacking virus-infected cells. It’s like your body’s immune system gets a natural upgrade just by hanging out in the woods.  

Need a mental recharge? Spending time in nature can also improve attention span, focus, and cognitive function. Natural environments provide a restorative setting for the brain, allowing it to recover from mental fatigue caused by the constant overstimulation of modern life, particularly from digital devices. After spending time outdoors you might feel more focused, clear-headed, and energized which can improve productivity and problem-solving abilities in daily life.

Time spent in green spaces can help If you’re dealing with things like anxiety, depression, or ADHD. The calm and serenity of nature can help quiet your mind and reduce symptoms, making it easier to feel balanced and centered.

Plus, let’s not forget about the physical activity that often comes with being outdoors. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just walking, getting your body moving releases endorphins – the feel-good hormones. This can give you a nice confidence boost and leave you with a sense of accomplishment.

Being in nature also helps you connect with others or even with yourself. Whether you’re hanging out with friends or enjoying some solo time, the outdoors can deepen your sense of community and belonging.  

Getting back to nature and spending time outdoors is a great way to care for yourself.  From lowering stress to sparking creativity to boosting your immune system, there are endless benefits.  So next time you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, consider taking a forest bath or practicing shinrin-roku. You might be surprised at how much it helps.