Many cultures throughout history have made nature an important and integral part of their lives. But it's so easy in our fast-paced world to lose touch with the restorative, therapeutic and inspirational energy of the great outdoors. Make spending time in nature a priority in you and your family’s life. Here are some simple ways to do that:
- Begin by taking a few deep invigorating breaths of fresh air and start developing an appreciation of the weather, no matter what it's doing.
- If you already walk, run or bike ride for exercise, make a point of noticing and delighting in the trees, flowers and plants, and allow the beauty around you to energize your body, soothe your psyche, and give you clarity of mind. If the area you now walk, run, or bike in is not a feast for your eyes and your soul, find one that is and notice what a vital difference the art of nature can make in your day.
- If you don't exercise outdoors, leave your house 10 minutes early in the morning. Before you climb into your car or hop on the train, use that time to notice the dew on the grass, sunlight on the leaves and the clouds in the sky.
- Take 10 minutes before you go into the house when you return from work to acknowledge and enjoy the closing of another day.
- Get up half an hour earlier than you usually do and sit on your front porch and watch the sunrise.
- Make time at the end of the day to take the kids to a nearby park to watch the sunset.
- Have your lunch outdoors regularly, and use that time to quietly commune with nature.
- Before you go to bed, get into the habit of stepping outside for a few moments. Enjoy the fresh air and change in temperature, and get lost in a meditative look at the evening sky.
- If you live in the city surrounded by tall buildings and concrete, be sure to make regular visits to nearby parks or public gardens or any place where nature's beauty has been allowed to flourish.
Spending time in nature can help us connect with what really matters in our lives and also guide us to harmony, balance, justice and peace -- both in our own lives and in the world.
Elaine St. James is the author of Inner Simplicity (Hyperion, 1995).
