Stepping Out into Nature is a Return to Balance

Our modern life is filled with conveniences that are designed to make life easier and less labor intensive. Advances in technology, medicine, and science should have us living the life of health and leisure; but by contrast, we are instead living a fast paced, hectic, drive-through type of existence that has increased our stress and caused epidemic levels of anxiety, insomnia, chronic illness and obesity.  We are trying so many things to help us calm down, relax and sleep better including succumbing to the glass of wine or beer after work and the numbing effect that TV has on an overworked mind.  I enjoy all of these forms of relaxation from time to time, but through the garden project, I've re-discovered that the simplest and quickest way of restoring my balance is by stepping out into nature.

 

On a purely physical level, I believe that people are very much like plants in that they need all of the elements in the natural world to thrive in a very positive and healthy way. We are hearing a lot right now about the epidemic levels of vitamin D deficiency and the resulting link to so many diseases, yet we know that sunshine is the major source of this vitamin for us. I'm also hearing about recent studies that have linked the happiness that most gardeners enjoy to the fact that they get their hands into dirt and come in contact with a soil organism called Mycobacterium vaccae which increases serotonin levels and is showing promise in its ability to also increase our ability to learn and memorize (another good reason for the children's garden). 

 

Now, going beyond the physical benefits, there is an experience that many of us can recall that is helpful in understanding the power of nature to restore our mental and emotional wellbeing. Can you recall a time when you took a walk in the park or into the woods? At first you are walking, thinking, trying to slow down when the power of nature draws you in.  You smell the woodsy earthy scents of nature. You hear the natural world filled with the sound of birds, squirrels, and chipmunks. You feel the slightly moist cool wind moving through your hair, touching your face. You feel the warmth and energy of the sun on your body and time melts away…your thoughts melt away.  You walk, you relax, and you enjoy the experience as your sense of balance returns. You emerge from this time in nature with renewed energy and a calm mind.

 

I enjoy this natural high regularly in the garden as I sprint from my cubicle-lined fluorescent-lighted work place, kick off my heels and put my hands in the dirt (who knew I was taking home microorganisms in that dirt under my fingernails!). When I smell the garden and feel the wind and sun I return to that familiar feeling of being in nature. I realize that it really is that easy.

 

Gardening is a simple and affordable way to restore physical, emotional, and mental balance. When combined with the garden aerobic "workout" and the health benefits of eating fresh locally grown produce, it's a complete health regimen that could save you hundreds of dollars spent on the pursuit of health including your gym fees.

 

Be Well and Enjoy Life!

Karen

 

SAVE THE DATE: The Fall Festival in Our Children's Rainbow Garden is on Saturday, October 9^th, starting at 12 noon. Come and enjoy a vegetarian cooking contest, gourd and pumpkin painting and carving, and lots more! More information is coming!