Without making this introduction too lengthy, I think I speak for all of us when I say; we all need to reset from time to time. Nature has always provided us with all we need to survive and flourish. We have the intelligence to transform nature’s gifts into useful substances, whatever form that might take. This can be said for the most practical of things, as well as the most soulful. Whether you believe in souls or not, a good dose of the right natural environment will leave you feeling a sense of renewal which is hard to ignore.
These mindful acts will help clear out any blockages, cobwebs and negative energy that have been accumulating; quite literally flushing out symptoms of fatigue. The obvious ‘outdoor activity’ physical benefits you’ll attain from these excursions, of course, play a large part in overall wellbeing. When the body is well, the mind soon follows, and vice versa. Though a lot of the reasons we’ll go into that true *reset* mode, is far more profound than simply ‘getting good exercise.’
Take a walk through a forested area and sit under a tree inhaling deeply
- Mystical
- Energising
- Refreshing
- High levels of oxygen, minimum pollution
- Purely nature sounds
- Sweet-smelling earthy aroma causing the release of feel-good chemicals
- Best place to take your dog for a great adventure
- Pack a picnic for the perfect meditative retreat
You’ve taken the time-out to seek out a forested sanctuary, so already, you’re quite literally leaving behind a lot of obligations and distractions that may be causing stress. Now you’re going to exercise your body in an environment that is so instinctually familiar, that the body and mind can’t resist feeling connected. Even if you’re not aware of it, it’s all happening subconsciously.
Find a tree, a nice big tree. When you need to rest, sit under the tree. Clear your mind and inhale as deeply and slowly as you your diaphragm comfortably permits. This is you resetting. Entering a state of relaxing revival.
Did you know?
A study at the University of Michigan found that smelling the distinct organic aroma of grown trees-and listening to soothing nature sounds, like the rustling of leaves- stimulates your brain’s frontal lobe and increases production of energy-boosting beta waves. Proven to double your energy in as little as 10 minutes.
Swim out to sea
- Wondrous
- Cleansing
- Energising
- Purifying
- Good for joints and muscles (weightless exercise)
- Increases blood circulation
- Free pedicure
- Sun on exposed skin allows fast Vitamin D absorption
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Encourages restful sleep
Beach days are always fun. Experiencing joy keeps us healthy in more ways than we would realise. This beach day is slightly different though. You have a mission. (If the sea provides suitable swimming conditions.) You’re going to take to the water and swim out. One straight line towards the horizon. If it’s a really calm day, you can turn on your back and float. Taking in the sky, the clouds, the pale blue.
Whatever picture you might see up there, you’ll take it in and think only about the sky. It’s seemingly endless reach, it’s beauty. It’s protective roll it plays in keeping this planet habitable. You’re as much part of the sky as you are with the sea right now. Submersed and akin to the elements. Stay in that moment, and feel yourself releasing all the things you grip so tightly to. There’s not a care in the world.
When you swim to shore and emerge, step purposefully. Let the finely coarse sand ground you as your toes seep into it’s engulfment. Now, flop onto a towel and dry off in tanning style. Life is good.
Did you know?
In its mineral composition, the water in our cells is comparable to that found in the sea. Science writer Loren Eiseley once described human beings as “a way that water has of going about, beyond the reach of rivers.” Our innate relationship to water goes far deeper than economics, food, or proximity.
Blue mind
“Blue mind” is the term used by Marine biologist, Wallace J. Nichols to describe our headspace when we’re in water. He explains the trigger in our mentality as “a mildly meditative state characterised by calm, peacefulness, unity, and a sense of general happiness and satisfaction with life in the moment.”
He further states “We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.”
Vitality of the seas
Oceans are a critical player in the basic elements we need to survive. Ocean plants produce half of the world’s oxygen, whilst absorbing nearly one-third of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions. They regulate our weather and form the clouds responsible for bringing us fresh water.
Do 25 minutes of Yoga
- All you need is a mat / comfortable carpet
- Hugely beneficial to all body systems
- Emotionally grounding
- Improved flexibility and circulation
- Speeds toxin elimination
- Reduces tension
- Decreases stress levels
- Clearer thinking
- Stimulates endorphin release (uplifted mood)
Take some time to regroup your body and your thoughts by practicing a 20-25 minute yoga routine. If you’re a yogi-newbie, that’s no issue. There are hundreds of how-to videos on YouTube and across the internet. Find a video that suits your needs, and you’ve got your own yoga instructor right there in your living room! Don’t stress about your level of flexibility, that’s not what this is about. If you are extremely inflexible, that’s all the more reason to start! Take each stretch to your comfortable limit, inhaling strength and exhaling weakness. The yoga mat is no place for a worry-wart. You’ve got this. And afterwards, you can feel good about yourself, because you’ve just completed a yoga session! Time to hydrate and feel inspired. 🙂
Did you know?
- According to a Norwegian study, yoga boosts the immune system on a genetic level.
- Yoga improves cardiovascular health, which reduces the risk of heart disease.
- As yoga exercises involve controlling muscle movements and stretching the body, the postures rush more blood to different organs. This results in improved sexual performance and confidence in both men and women.
- Yoga poses stimulate the regular secretion of hormones from the endocrine glands, thus promoting overall physical and emotional health.
Sources: Salon, The Nature Conservancy, The Huffington Post, MSN Lifestyle
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