What are the benefits of Nature Connection ?
Nature offers us endless healing possibilities to assist in releasing stress, to help us become more present and to open up our senses becoming naturally ”mindful” or aware.
It is vibrantly alive and full of sounds, smells, textures, tastes, lush greenery and visual delights. It is a wonderful space to SIMPLY BE and quite beneficial to practice Meditation, Mindfulness, relaxation or conscious connection with the intelligence and wisdom of our beautiful planet. Nature connection practices are simple ways of awakening our innate, empathetic and natural connection to nature. They reconnect us to our fundamental rhythm and habitat.
New scientific studies, many emerging from Japan investigating the effects of “Forest Bathing”-simply being immersed in nature, show measurable changes to our bodies and minds. Benefits documented in these studies and many others identified improved mental health (decreased salivary cortisol stress levels), increased immune system function from organic compounds that trees emit called phytoncides, decreased high blood pressure, improved recovery from illness, increased goodwill to others and improved concentration and creativity.
Modern life is full of stimuli that can trigger a stress response. The restorative power of nature has been proven to help regulate our nervous system, creating a response of feeling energised, refreshed and a general sense of wellbeing. It is clear that our bodes still regard nature as harmonious and our home!
Classes/Events
Throughout the year i offer group or individual Nature Connection sessions in Macedon. These can be:
- Meditations out in nature
- Mindfulness Forest nature walks decreasing stress in mind, body and spirit
- Nature connection Meditations
I am happy to provide this for group bookings or individuals.
Nature Connection walks involve deepening our experience of being in nature and may involve beneficial practices such as:
Sit spot– sitting quietly in nature connecting to our senses, feeling the experience of sensations and emotions within our inner world, reconnecting with the outer world.
Wandering– Gentle wanders through trails in nature, intuitively following what draws your awareness, staying connected to the present moment.
Wildlife observation– Observing the interrelation of all beings around us.
Wisdom of nature– What does nature ‘speak’ to you of, or speak through you? A fallen tree, supported by another, or a water flowing around an obstacle can be natural sources of wisdom.
Infinite possibilities– Invitations are everywhere in the forest. The fresh earthly smells invite you to breathe in the aromas, the clouds invite you to gaze and the snail invites you to slow down your pace.
The University of Derby in the UK researched and identified 5 key pathways to Nature Connectedness:
- Through our five senses
- Through beauty and appreciation (eg. photography, painting, drawing)
- Through meaning (eg natural navigation, natural signs, cultural)
- Through compassion (eg gardening, conservation, wildlife care)
- Through emotion (eg. reflection, sharing with others)
Nature Connection Walk
Meditation, Mindfulness…immerse yourself in the sensory delights of the forest and the earth with increased awareness in a way like never before! Experience what Winter truly offers us.
Studies show being in nature reduces stress, increases creativity, lifts mood and improves wellbeing.
Reconnect and synchronise with the Natural world. Open up to communicating and receiving from Nature and it’s Consciousness.
This is a slow gentle walk, focused on principles of Mindfulness and Forest Bathing-very different from the usual brisk walk we do whilst in our busy minds or chatting tp !
Located in Arandayra, Macedon.
Please contact me for more information and upcoming dates if you are interested in trying out this wonderful experience!