Ever since I was small I’ve always felt happiest and most at peace in nature. For me there is something almost instantaneously restorative and calming about being in nature so it’s not surprising that more and more studies are confirming what many of us already instinctively know – spending time in nature is good for us, both physically and mentally.
The ‘biophilia hypothesis’, popularised by Edward O. Wilson, suggests that we are hardwired to need time in nature because we evolved in nature. Our need for nature is literally hardwired in our DNA. While quite broad, this theory resonates strongly with me. Here are a few further thoughts about why nature is so important for our wellbeing:
When we’re in nature we engage our senses more consciously. We are instinctively drawn to the sights, sounds and smells of nature and when we consciously engage our senses our minds shift from our default state of mind – a very busy, active state that often triggers the stress response – to a more relaxed state of mind (this is the main focus of our Mindful Hiking Days). When this shift in brain state occurs we feel calmer and are more able to stay in the present moment. Our bodies begin to relax and our minds calm down.
Nature sparks creativity and other positive qualities. Studies have confirmed that when we spend time in nature we are better able to access our innate creativity. New ideas and creative solutions naturally bubble up to the surface when we’re in nature. When we are present and relaxed, resources become available to us that we can have trouble accessing when we are distracted and stressed. In addition to increased creativity, we are also more likely to feel happier, kind-hearted and generous as a result of spending time in nature.
Nature alters our sense of perspective. Being immersed in nature can make us feel small and insignificant, and while this might sound undesirable it can help us connect to something larger than ourselves. Our sense of interconnectedness with the natural world is heightened and we re-ignite our sense of wonder and awe about the world. Spending time in nature opens up whole worlds we might not have known existed. Whatever captures your imagination -birds, wildflowers, trees, mountains, constellations of stars, native trees, fauna – the more you explore, the more complexity and awe-inspiring diversity you’ll find. There are, quite literally, whole worlds out there just waiting to be discovered.
Nature is a balm for our overconsumption. We are constantly encouraged to think that we don’t have enough; that we need more – more money, more possessions, a bigger house, a better car. On the flip side, however, we’re not encouraged to consider the consequences of our over-consumption. Nature reminds us that to function optimally we need to work within our natural limits just as she does. Trees only grow to a height that reflects the nutrients and water available to them. Noticing the balance and harmony in nature can help counteract the damaging messages we are constantly fed.
Nature Reminds Us That We are Enough. Being in nature also provides much needed relief from the constant messages that bombard us and often leave us feeling we are not enough – not beautiful enough, smart enough, funny enough, likeable enough and so on. When we spend time in nature we notice the incredible array of diversity all around us and yet everything has its place. We don’t single out a plant that looks different from those surrounding it and assume that there must be something wrong with it. If anything, we might think its differences make it all the more beautiful.
