Historically, humans have always interacted with the natural environment, and we need to. For example, fresh air and sunlight are vital to our existence. Between them, they provide the integral oxygen required to keep us alive and the vitamin D that gives us bone health and immunity. 

However, the healing power of nature transcends the physical. Emotionally, mentally and, some may say, even spiritually, spending time in the great outdoors provides therapeutic effects that are uniquely unmatched.

What can Mother Nature do for me?

It can help you stay present..  Often, we find ourselves falling into the pattern of thinking about the past or the future. This can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety and stress.  In truth, the past may be nebulous and the future a mystery, but the present is a reality. Being surrounded by nature can draw us back to the present moment, refocusing on what we CAN control in the here and now, rather than living in the grey areas of self doubt and second guessing in an untouchable time frame. 

It can help you to become still.  Spending time outdoors can give us a break from the stimulation caused by too much screen time, traffic, peripheral noise or current affairs. It can be a great way to keep our minds focused on the quiet space, as opposed to having our attention split in various directions.

It can make us feel refreshed. Green spaces have been shown to put our minds at ease and to mentally recharge us. This can lead to new inspiration and creativity, an increase in motivation and productivity, and an overall feeling of happiness. The colours of nature remind us of a world outside- literally- of the whites,blacks and greys of urban living. Birdsong has been shown to calm the central nervous system, perhaps awakening the visceral DNA of our ancestors and connecting us to the planetary ‘bigger picture’. 

But how can I find the time to be outside? 

While just being outdoors surrounded by nature is advantageous in itself, there are activities you can pursue to more fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors and maximise the benefits.

Get physical outside. Physical activity does not have to be limited to a full cardio workout or a marathon. Find things you enjoy, whether it’s a solo activity like hiking or surfing, or with a group, perhaps volleyball or petanque, or a gentle walk along a beach or through a local park. All movement is exercise and when you take it out of the gym,  you are benefitting from the healing effects of nature.

Actively or passively meditate!  You can actively engage with your environment using your mind, body and spirit by closing your eyes and breathing deeply, grounding yourself barefoot on the grass as you focus on meditation or take part in a calming and repetitive activity like gardening and let your mind quietly focus on the task at hand as a form of passive meditation. Both of these approaches will help you re-centre.  

Take mental pictures to help you stay present and to store for later. Watching the sunrise, the sunset, the moon or the ocean can both inspire and relax. It also brings your mind back to the moment to appreciate where you are and what you are doing. Remember to listen for any birds or insects, the movement of trees or the sound of waves crashing. You can keep these moments to reflect upon when you need a mental break later. 

What does it all mean?

The body has the ability to naturally heal itself using the form of ‘nature’ that exists within us. Similarly, the body can make use of the nature that surrounds us as  a form of therapy. As humans, we are never really separated from nature. We ARE nature because, just like other living creatures, we require air, water, sunlight and sustenance to live.

Being exposed to a natural environment, being outdoors, reduces feelings of stress, anger and sadness while increasing cognitive function, contentment and resilience. And for the days that you cannot be outside, surrounding yourself with indoor plants or even photos of nature has been shown to have similar effects to the real thing.

The Nature’s Embrace Retreat at Chiva-Som

Chiva-Som’s beachfront setting is ideal for physical and mental reset. Seven acres of landscaped gardens immerse guests in the healing effects of nature. Peace pervades, as does a refreshing sea breeze and the warmth of a Thai climate.

إن عناق الطبيعة retreat includes a walk through a local mangrove forest, meditation on a quiet hilltop, learning to cook with all-organic ingredients, and wellness treatments that draw on the powers of herbs. By embracing all that nature has to offer you at Chiva-Som, with our help, you can reconnect to yourself, to Mother Nature and to the Earth in a way that leaves you feeling calm, balanced and empowered.