Taking time out in nature is so important and where I live on the Gold Coast I am lucky to have an abundance of parks, beaches, creeks and rainforests to visit and at this time of year the weather is so perfect for being outdoors.
I have always had a strong connection with nature. I am naturally drawn to walks on the beach and swims in the ocean in summer and how invigorating and energetic it makes you feel afterwards. When the weather cools down a little, our Queensland winters are perfect for getting outside more and planning a visit to a new park or rainforest for a walk or picnic.
There are numerous benefits of spending time in nature, apart from the increased physical activity, it reduces stress, improving mental health and deepens your connection to the natural world.
Nurturing yourself in nature may be as simple as taking your cup of tea or coffee outside and moving a chair into the sun or walking around the block in your lunch time. It is so important to make the time for yourself to breath, slow down and be mindful of your surroundings.
So many people these days are distracted by their phones or headphones while walking in nature however, there is much research that says by noticing what is around you and seeing the beauty in your surroundings you will feel happier.
So I invite you to take in your natural environment, the trees, the plants, the birds, the sky, the waterways and take a few deep breaths and feel your body relax. Engage all your senses and really immerse yourself in the beauty around you and take the time to step back from the busy external world we live in and also feel the benefits.
Start making it a habit. When you pass a nice park or bench seat by the water, slow down and take 5 and be inspired by the nurturing arms of nature.
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