Nature as Medicine

I woke up feeling heavy this morning. Sadness and loneliness wrapped around me like a blanket I couldn’t shake off. I missed my mommy, who died in January of this year, and my daddy, who’s been gone far longer than I’d really like to admit and I still miss him every day. The room felt too quiet, the air too still, even with the fan on and Luci snoring next to me. For a while, I just lay there, staring at the ceiling, wondering how I’d find the energy to face the day.

Then, through the slats of my blinds, I noticed the soft glow of early sunlight. Something about it whispered, Come outside. I didn’t feel like it, but I pushed myself to get up, put on my favorite hoodie, and step into the crisp, cold morning air on my mountain.

The world outside greeted me like an old friend. The sky was painted with soft pink and golden hues, and the air was fresh, carrying the faint scent of pine, which permeates everything around here since the storm. I headed down my driveway, noticing all the trees now mostly naked, into the nearby woods, my steps slow and uncertain at first, but the rhythm of the walk began to loosen the knots in my chest and my deepening breath began to lighten the darkness of my sad heart.

As I moved deeper into the trees, the world around me came alive. I spotted a fox curled up in a sunny patch, its fiery fur glowing like a tiny flame. It was far enough away I could probably be careful enough to let him sleep. A little further along, a family of deer stepped gracefully across my path, their movements so serene it felt like they were walking to the tempo of the morning itself. I don’t often see deer quite that close while walking! It was an exciting moment!

I paused and closed my eyes, letting the sounds of birdsong and rustling clumps of dried leaves fill my mind. It was as if the woods were quietly scooping out all the clutter in my head, leaving open space for peace and focus to settle in.

By the time I turned back home, the sadness I had woken up with felt lighter. My heart felt nourished, my thoughts clearer.

Walking in nature isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s a must-have for me. It’s medicine for the soul, a way to reconnect with something bigger than yourself. It reminded me today that the world is still beautiful and alive, even when my heart feels burdened and sorry for itself. Nature doesn’t just ask you to notice its beauty—it offers a hand to lift you up when you need it most. And that’s exactly what it had done for me, in just about 20 minutes of being outside. Amazing.

I absolutely HAVE TO spend time in nature regularly to function. I encourage you all to at least try it! And, just as a little more emphasis, I wanted to share five reasons nature is oh so good for you!

1. Nature Grounds You in the Present Moment
   When you're surrounded by trees, listening to birdsong, or feeling the cool breeze on your face, it's easier to let go of worries about the past or future. This immersion in the present moment helps quiet mental chatter and creates space for calm and clarity.

2. Boosts Your Physical Well-Being
   Spending time in nature has been shown to lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and release endorphins—the body's natural mood elevators. Simply breathing in fresh air and moving your body in a natural setting can create a sense of vitality and energy.

3. Fosters a Sense of Wonder and Discovery
   Observing the intricate beauty of a leaf, the playfulness of wildlife, or the vastness of the sky ignites feelings of awe and curiosity. These moments of wonder can inspire creativity, new perspectives, and a sense of adventure.

4. Connects You to Something Larger Than Yourself
   Being in nature reminds us of our place in the grand tapestry of life. The cycles of the seasons, the resilience of plants and animals, and the sheer beauty of the natural world can provide a sense of purpose and belonging that’s deeply uplifting.

5. Engages All Your Senses
   Mindfulness in nature activates your senses—hearing the rustle of leaves, feeling the texture of tree bark, or smelling the earth after rain. This full sensory engagement not only calms the mind but also makes the experience feel rich, vivid, and rejuvenating.

When you step into nature with a mindful approach, it becomes more than a backdrop; it transforms into a source of healing, inspiration, and adventure. Each moment spent outdoors is an opportunity to replenish your spirit and reconnect with the joy of simply being alive. We are part of nature, after all. Remembering that simple fact tends to make life easier.

Namaste.