My two passions in life are hiking and painting. If I’m not working on my art, I’m usually climbing a mountain. Being in nature has always been an escape and a relief, just like painting is. It’s no wonder my love for nature and wildlife transpire in my work. To me, the two are linked.
Spending time outdoors has been proven to be good for you both physically and emotionally. Or, as I like to put it, it’s good for the soul.
Here are 6 reasons why being in nature is good for the soul
1. Being in nature promotes spiritual well-being
Spiritual wellness is having a sense of purpose in life and feeling connected to something greater than ourselves. It is a big part of a holistic wellness approach, alongside physical, mental, emotional, and psychological wellness.
Finding meaning and purpose in your life may be a lifelong journey, however, being outdoors in nature gets you part of the way. It helps you connect not only with yourself but with the world around you.
Hiking especially can bring about this feeling of something greater being at play. Whenever I look at the magnificent landscape from the top of a mountain, it makes me feel so small. It makes me realize life is fleeting but so beautiful.
Being in nature, you realize how everything is connected. Animals, plants, and us humans. We are part of a whole.
Be aware of your surroundings and let your body and soul connect with nature.
2. Time spent outdoors is an antidote for stress
Nature is inherently pleasing and has a calming effect.
By being outdoors, you can put your problems behind and focus on what’s important in your life more easily. The fast-paced world fades away.
A walk in nature allows you to be mindful and present in the moment. Feel the wind on your face, breath in a flower’s scent, observe a bird swooping by.
Spending time outside is calming and rejuvenating.
3. Being outdoors helps you get exercise
Physical activity is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Being outdoors makes it easy to be active. It can be a hike, a bike ride, kayaking on a lake, or even just a simple walk. No matter the activity, you are moving your body.
Exercise has been proven to do wonders for your overall health and there is no need to follow an excruciating workout plan to reap the benefits. A walk in the park works just as well.
However, if you’re like me and actually enjoy the fitness lifestyle, hiking can be a terrific workout depending on which trail you pick, and it’s one of the reasons why I enjoy it so much. It’s a two in one kind of thing: exercise and mental health.
4. Nature inspires
Whenever I go on a hike, I end up making up stories in my head and daydreaming. Nature has such an inspiring effect. It can help you clear your mind and see new perspectives.
Being in nature allows for more creative thinking. If you ever find yourself in a creative block, try spending quality time outside. Numerous studies have actually proven that nature is linked with increased creativity.
5. It promotes mindfulness
It’s a lot easier to practice mindfulness when you are away from the bustling life of a city and can focus on yourself and your surroundings without feeling overwhelmed.
Mindfulness is a form of meditation. It consists of focusing on being fully present and aware of what you’re sensing and feeling in the moment. It has been shown to have a lot of physical and psychological benefits.
Being in nature brings you to the present and helps you tune in to the natural world.
6. It helps improve your mood
Nature scenes are generally associated with a positive mood so immersing yourself in it can help you feel more calm and balanced. Nature can sooth you and help you get rid of negative thoughts. You’re away from all the little issues of your daily life.
Being outdoors relieves stress, gives you energy, boosts creativity, and makes you happier. Enjoy it and savor it.
Sunshine and fresh air can do wonders!
