I was in the middle of a complex text ‘conversation’ with someone I had considered a friend. There was clearly an issue and it wasn’t going well. I was asking for clarity and was getting meaningless word salads in response. I asked for a chance to shift the vibe by speaking in person and got…crickets. No response at all.

Without a second thought, I grabbed my shoes, whistled for Boo, and we headed straight for the solace of Mt. Coot-tha. It didn’t take long before I felt the tension starting to unravel, my breath slowing, and a sense of clarity settling in as nature worked its magic.

There’s something truly remarkable about the way nature heals us. Walking through a forest, listening to the ocean, feeling the sun warm on your skin; these experiences connect us to a deeper part of ourselves. When we step into nature, we escape the rush of everyday life. And in that space, we remember what it’s like to simply be.

Research has shown that time spent in nature isn’t just a pleasant escape—it’s vital for our health. Forest bathing, or simply walking in green spaces, has been proven to reduce stress, improve our mood, and even lower blood pressure. Nature has a way of calming our overactive minds, drawing us away from spiralling thoughts and bringing us back into our bodies. Our breath deepens, our shoulders relax, and we find ourselves more present, more connected. That’s exactly what happened to me that day.  

When we’re surrounded by tall trees, boundless oceans, or towering mountains, the things that weigh heavily on our minds seem to shrink in comparison. We are reminded of how small we are in the grand scheme of things, and how infinitely beautiful life can be. The challenges we face don’t disappear, but they soften in the face of nature’s vastness and quiet wisdom.

As someone who has spent years guiding others through the practice of yoga, I’ve seen time and again how nature amplifies our ability to connect with ourselves. Nature is the original teacher, showing us how to live in harmony, find peace amidst chaos, and see beauty everywhere. 

So the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a step outside. Feel the earth beneath your feet, breathe in the fresh air, and let the wildness around you remind you of the wildness within. Nature is waiting, ready to hold you, heal you, and bring you back home.

 

©Julie Smerdon 2024