Most of us enjoy spending time in nature whether it is hiking, running, walking, or driving through scenic vistas. The pleasure of experiencing a deep canyon, a forest cascaded by radiant light showering through trees, a snow-covered mountain, a park shared with mischievous squirrels and symphonic birds, or the inviting flowing rhythms of an ocean or river. We walk along enjoying the surroundings, but how often do we actually feel the connection to each element of nature? This opportunity presented to us each and every time we allow ourselves to break free from our electronics , our to do lists, our multitudes of mental chatter by allowing the creative alliance with nature to touch us in a deep way offers an inner sanctuary unlike any other aspect of life!
If you have never had the experience to become aware while in nature as you gaze upon a rock, a plant, a tree, or a mound of earth to be overtaken with reflective thoughts that you are not unlike these simple and beautiful pieces of nature , I urge you to view nature in a different manner. When we have what seems sudden and awe striking revelations of our existence being no different than that which we observe with all our senses in the stillness of nature, we become nurtured by nature. Being nurtured by nature in this way , in my experience , has opened a new and exciting world …a world in which birds, deer, butterflies don’t see me as an invader of their environment , but an actual part of it. When this magic happens the creatures of the natural world brush against my skin, connect with me as I connect with them!
If you are willing to step out of your busy life , I would like to suggest some simple new ways to connect with nature :
*Change your thinking and you change your reality and manifestation of experiences. Nature is not just something separate from your environment..it is part of you as much as you are part of it. One tiny example is the oxygen you breathe 24/7 is an equal relationship of life force between humans and trees creating a crucial facet for each other to thrive and live. Begin thinking of how we each are nature herself, and she is us! Go into your chosen place in nature alone. When we are with others in nature we tend to talk to each other; thus, depriving ourselves of the opportunity to connect fully with the nature with which we are present.
* Use your instinctive observational skills you were born with…vision-hearing-touching-smelling, moving your body. Look around you with childlike wonder. I believe this simple method will awaken the deep aspects within and you will know nature in a different way.
*Choose a place to sit with your back against a tree or a large rock. Breathe in the quietude. Just observe. Express your gratitude to nature for this precious time.
Allowing nature to nurture us will add layers of calmness, reduce our anxiety and stress, and inspire us to do it more often!
Jaguarwind 