Enrich Your Life by Connecting with Nature

There is nothing more invigorating than taking a moment to step outside, soak up the sun and breathe in the fresh, crisp air. Connecting with nature is easy to do, costs little to nothing and is good for our overall well-being. In fact, studies show that being in a natural environment, living near nature or simply viewing nature in artwork can positively impact our minds, bodies, emotions and social interactions.

Spending time in nature can also help calm our nerves and reduce our stress levels throughout the day. When we feel calm and at peace, we are prone to be more open, creative, resilient and generous, and we feel more connected with others. There are physical benefits, too. When our stress levels are down, we are more physically resilient and tend to recover from illnesses more quickly.

Even if you live in a bustling city, there are many simple ways you can connect with nature every day.

10 Ways to Connect with Nature

1. Plant a tree. Not only are trees beautiful, but they can also provide us with a feeling of serenity. They provide environmental benefits, too, like harboring wildlife and improving air quality.
2. Start a vegetable or an herb garden. Planting seeds and watching them grow is one of the best ways to feel connected to nature. And you can enjoy all the fresh, delicious, organic fruits and vegetables you care for. If you don’t have a yard, start a mini indoor herb or vegetable garden or a community garden.
3. Ride your bike rather than drive your car. Reduce your carbon footprint by traveling by bike, rather than by car, to your next local commute. Riding your bike is a great way to show your appreciation for nature and discover new scenery you may have missed in your car.
4. Stargazing is a beautiful, but humbling, experience that’s good for your soul. When you gaze at the stars, you’re reminded of the vastness of our world, and also feel connected to it. And you don’t need fancy, expensive equipment to see the stars — just a comfortable space outdoors and your eyes.
5. Take a hike. Hiking is a great way to connect with nature, and it can improve your physical and emotional health by strengthening your muscles, boosting your metabolism and reducing your stress levels.
6. Go camping. This is a wonderful way to connect with nature — and your family. Camping can also help you get more vitamin D, increase your physical activity and feel happier in general.
7. Eat your next meal outdoors. Change up your routine by packing a healthy meal and eating it at a local park or in your backyard.
8. Go for a stroll. Feeling blue? A nature walk could be just the thing to help ease your mind and improve your mental health. Studies show that when you’re out in nature, your mood improves, and you’re more likely to experience a decrease in depressive symptoms.
9. Keep a nature journal. Journaling is a creative way to enjoy nature every day. Make note of, collect or sketch natural things you encounter during your day, such as a fallen leaf, a blooming flower, a colorful pebble, a seashell or ocean waves crashing onto the shore. This is a wonderful way to bring you closer to nature.
10. Watch the sunset. Take a few minutes to go outside and watch the sunset. The natural beauty of a colorful sunset can greatly improve your emotional well-being and make you feel more connected to your emotions.