How To Heal With Nature
If there's one thing I've learned from living a more rural life in Wiltshire, it’s that nature is the ultimate healer.
Whether it’s the fresh morning air, the grounding effect of walking barefoot on the grass, or the joy of watching the changing seasons, nature is always there, offering a kind of energy and focus that no supplement or remedy can match.
Of course living in the countryside is not for everyone. Some are city lovers who feel at home surrounded by concrete and steel. But here’s the thing: no matter where you are, nature is health-giving and always within reach.
It might be a walk in the local park, a trip to the seaside, or simply sitting outside and feeling the breeze on your face. It all helps keep us connected.
So let me tempt you to step outside and discover the healing power of nature in all its forms. Here’s why it’s worth making the effort, no matter what your day looks like.
Fresh Air: Nature’s Energy Boost
Fresh air is more than just a nice-to-have, it’s an essential part of maintaining good health. I can tell you with certainty that stepping outside and breathing deeply makes a world of difference. It’s like hitting the reset button for my mind and body.
When we breathe in fresh air, our lungs get a good, deep clean, and our body is replenished with the oxygen it needs to function.
And that’s not all. Fresh air helps to lower stress hormones, boost serotonin, and leave us feeling more energized and focused. You don’t have to take a long hike to experience this either, just a quick step outside can refresh and rejuvenate you.
The Healing Power of Trees and Woodlands
I really love trees. There’s something magical about being surrounded by them. I spend hours wandering through the local woodlands, breathing in the earthy smells and listening to the wind rustle through the leaves. It’s a feeling I can never get enough of.
The science is there, too. Spending time in woodlands (also known as "forest bathing" in Japan) can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost your immune system.
Trees release natural oils, called phytoncides, which they use to protect themselves from disease. But these oils are also beneficial to us when we breathe them in. It’s almost as if the trees are giving us their healing energy.
And the best part? You don’t need to be in a forest to enjoy these benefits. Even a small park with a couple of trees can provide that calming, grounding effect we all need from time to time.
Grounding: Reconnecting with the Earth
Let me tempt you further: Have you ever tried grounding, or “earthing”? It’s the act of connecting directly with the Earth, whether that’s walking barefoot on grass, standing on the beach, or simply lying on the ground.
When we make physical contact with the Earth, our bodies absorb its electrons, which help to neutralize free radicals in our bodies. Grounding can reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even help with stress management.
I do it every day in my garden, or just lying in the hammock with my palms touching the grass for a few minutes. It’s like getting a deep reset. And if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or out of balance, grounding is an easy (and free!) way to restore some calm.
The Benefits of Outdoor Exercise
We all have our preferred ways of working out. Whether it’s yoga, running, or just lifting weights in the garage, but let me tempt you with this: outdoor exercise. Trust me, it takes the benefits of regular exercise and adds a whole new level of loveliness.
Exercising outside doesn’t just give your body a workout; it feeds your soul. The fresh air, the sunlight, and the natural surroundings make the whole experience feel more invigorating. Plus, nature offers a variety of terrains (no gym equipment required).
A walk through the woods, a jog along a beach, or a hike through the hills. All of these give you the physical benefits of exercise while lifting your mood and boosting your immune system.
And, of course, the added bonus of sunlight (more on that in a minute) makes outdoor exercise a total winner.
By the Seaside: Saltwater is Magic
I love the sea and live too far away to go often, but when I do get the chance to visit the coast, I take full advantage. The sea has a unique way of soothing the soul. The sound of the waves, the salt in the air, and the feel of sand between your toes... it’s like nature’s perfect recipe for relaxation.
There’s something about the rhythm of the ocean that calms your nervous system and helps clear your mind. Being near the sea can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve overall mental clarity.
And let’s not forget the physical benefits. Saltwater is rich in minerals that our skin can absorb, offering a natural way to improve skin health and even reduce inflammation. So, next time you’re near the coast, take a deep breath of that salty air and let the ocean work its magic.
Sunlight: Nature’s Gift to Our Skin and Soul
We all know how important sunlight is for our bodies, but living in the UK, we hardly ever get enough of it and when it does show up, it’s like a special treat. Sunlight helps our body produce vitamin D, which plays a huge role in our immune system, bone health, and mood.
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to a whole host of health issues, including fatigue, depression, and weakened immunity. So, when the sun is out, make the most of it. A little bit of sunlight on your skin can lift your mood and help your body work at its best.
And let’s not forget that sunlight is essential for regulating our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Morning exposure to natural light helps signal to our brain that it’s time to be awake, suppressing melatonin and boosting alertness.
Just 20 minutes of sunlight in the morning can help reset your internal clock, improving sleep quality, mood, and energy levels throughout the day.
Nature’s Gift to Us
Whether it's a walk in the park, a hike in the hills, or simply sitting by the sea for a while, nature offers us so much healing. It doesn’t matter whether it’s sunny or rainy, spending time outside gives us the opportunity to reconnect with the Earth and ourselves.
So, I’ll leave you with this:
Take a moment to step outside today. Feel the air, listen to the sounds, and embrace the beauty of nature, no matter where you are. Let it heal you, restore you, and bring you back to balance.