Inner Peace. It is something we all seek. I mean, wouldn’t it be wonderful to have that mind space full of Zen, a space we could go to at will?
Often, we feel disconnected. Maybe we are so preoccupied with everything in our daily existence that we hardly even have time to realize what’s going on around us.
Do you feel that way too?
Do you wish for inner peace?
Well, I have good news for you. You don’t have to look very far.
Because you’ll find inner peace in nature.
Perhaps the only moment you observe nature is when the weather meddles with your to-do list. Can you recall the last time you were inclined to simply inhale and sit outdoors?
There is indeed a great deal of proof that spending time in nature has a considerable beneficial influence on both mental and physical health. Strolling in a green space has been demonstrated to help with mental health issues such as depression and ADHD.
According to VeryWellMind,
“On days when you’re struggling with negative thoughts about your body, many different coping mechanisms can help. But new research suggests you should get outside and spend time in nature to soothe those feelings.
Negative body image is a risk factor for behaviors like disordered eating, which can have disastrous consequences for one’s body, mind, and relationships. Nowadays, it can be harder to avoid negative body thoughts when navigating social media.”
Time spent in nature is a wonderful way to regain your focus in addition to treating certain mental health challenges and enhancing mental and physical well-being.
For some of us, it can be the start of a meditation practice or a heightened spiritual understanding of how we are all related. For others, it is simply a fantastic method to relieve tension.
If you want inner peace, here are four excellent techniques to get started bonding with the natural world around you, no matter where you want your time outside to take you.
1. Slow down to the speed of nature
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” — Lao Tzu
Walking slowly causes you to breathe more slowly, making you feel instantly more relaxed. Slow down and start seeing the environment around you. It may be a speck of lichen in a crack in the sidewalk or a tree you’ve never spotted before. Look around you carefully and deliberately to see what you discover as you sink into this more natural rhythm of being.
2. Experiment with barefoot breathing
People are the only animals that put a shoe between our feet and the Spirit of the Earth. The act of taking off your shoes and standing barefoot on the ground satisfies a primitive urge for connectivity.
Find a peaceful spot outside—a park nook, a quiet spot in your garden, or your favorite wild location. Shut your eyes and take 100 deep, soft breaths while feeling the sunlight on your face, the breeze on your body, and the warm heart of the ground via the soles of your feet. Enjoy the feeling.
3. Dine or read outdoors
Take your lunch or a book outside to enjoy on a park seat or picnic blanket. While you dine or read, take in the fresh air and natural sunlight (or both).
4. Hug a tree
Which words come to mind when you think about trees? Sturdy? High? Statuesque? Tenacious? Primitive? The world’s oldest trees have been alive for thousands of years, and we rely on them to create the oxygen we need to live.
Although the term “tree-hugger” is sometimes used ironically, hugging a tree is an easy method to boost your energy levels by mopping up all that energy and oxygen-rich deliciousness! Close your eyes and press your cheek on the trunk. Feel the bark on your flesh as you spread your arms to embrace the tree.
Visit a greenhouse or a flower shop. Soak in the aroma of green vegetation and a plethora of flowers. Step into a flower shop’s refrigerated department, which is brimming with freshly cut bouquets.
Pay attention to the tiny weeds and wildflowers that sprout up in sidewalk cracks. Consider the persistence and perseverance of that small creature to take root and flourish in such a challenging environment whenever you observe this. Take a moment to send your best wishes and consider how you could connect to that type of strength.
Are you there yet? I mean inner peace.
You’re welcome!
