Vitamin N? Huh? Never heard of that one?
Wellllll it is probably because it isn’t technically a vitamin.
What I am talking about is however the BEST mind-body medicine you will find.
I am talking about nature.
Anyone who has spent just a fraction of their life in nature understands there is something intuitively right about being outdoors. Your mind is clearer, the weight falls off your shoulders and you can feel perfectly at peace.
Nature has a way of bringing us into the present moment and putting life into perspective. It recharges, refreshes and instills a sense of curiosity to the mind, body and spirit. Humans are naturally biophilic, as we have an innate connection and attraction to nature. For whatever you believe in, we can’t deny that ultimately nature is truth.
Here on the west coast we really have ZERO excuses not to get outside. Nature is literally our back yard!! Getting outdoors doesn’t mean you have to go climb a mountain or spend 4 days in the back country (although if you do, big HIGH FIVE!). Spending time near the ocean or in a city park can have a similar effect.
A 15 minute walk in nature has been shown to have a profound effect on your physical health. Such as lowered blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol (stress hormone) levels. Awesome!
In my opinion, the best part about nature is the effect that it has on the mind.
Getting out into nature can:
- Increase your mood
- Decrease stress, anxiety and depression
- Boost self-esteem
- Enhance creativity
- Help with mental clarity
Um so yeah, you should get out there!
Here is a list of my personal favourite ways to enjoy nature!
- Hiking/climbing mountains
- Paddle boarding
- Free diving/snorkeling our coastal waters
- Snowshoeing
- Kayaking
- Trail running
- Sitting on the beach watching the sunset with tea (or beer) in hand!
What is your favourite way to enjoy nature? Let me know in the comments below!
Editor’s note: This post originates at Amelia’s blog. Visit her there for more great posts like this!
